CERTAINTY Synonyms: 52 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the noun 'certainty' differ from other similar words?

The words certitude and conviction are common synonyms of certainty . While all three words mean "a state of being free from doubt," certainty and certitude are very close; certainty may stress the existence of objective proof. // claims that cannot be confirmed with scientific certainty

Q: When might 'certitude' be a better fit than 'certainty'?

The synonyms certitude and certainty are sometimes interchangeable, but certitude may emphasize a faith in something not needing or not capable of proof. // believes with certitude in an afterlife

Q: When is 'conviction' a more appropriate choice than 'certainty'?

In some situations, the words conviction and certainty are roughly equivalent. However, conviction applies especially to belief strongly held by an individual. // holds firm convictions on every issue

certainty

noun

ˈsər-tᵊn-tē

Definition of certainty next

as in assurance

a state of mind in which one is free from doubt I have full certainty that I'll pass the test

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in likelihood

the quality or state of being impossible to avoid or evade the proverbial certainty of death and taxes

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun certainty differ from other similar words?

The words certitude and conviction are common synonyms of certainty. While all three words mean "a state of being free from doubt," certainty and certitude are very close; certainty may stress the existence of objective proof.

claims that cannot be confirmed with scientific certainty

When might certitude be a better fit than certainty?

The synonyms certitude and certainty are sometimes interchangeable, but certitude may emphasize a faith in something not needing or not capable of proof.

believes with certitude in an afterlife

When is conviction a more appropriate choice than certainty?

In some situations, the words conviction and certainty are roughly equivalent. However, conviction applies especially to belief strongly held by an individual.

holds firm convictions on every issue

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of certainty The Trump administration holds total certainty in its command and power: Trump’s polling support is soaring, according to Rasmussen, which found 54% approved of his transition. —

Richard E. Vatz, Baltimore Sun, 26 Jan. 2025 On the Hill, lawmakers are attempting to provide more legal certainty, but face an uphill battle. —

Maria Curi, Axios, 21 Jan. 2025 Executive orders dropped like leaves in a thunderstorm, remaking American society in ways that will reverberate for years (though court challenges for some are a certainty). —

Anita Chabria, Los Angeles Times, 21 Jan. 2025 The only certainty is that the Packers can’t afford another year of uncertainty — and headaches — from Alexander. —

Rob Reischel, Forbes, 15 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for certainty

Recent Examples of Synonyms for certainty

Noun

Staffers, though, want full assurance that Pappas will not be shuttered and that their patients will not be displaced.

— Lance Reynolds, Boston Herald, 1 Feb. 2025
While the bank continues to adopt a measured growth strategy, these improvements provide assurance to stakeholders regarding its future prospects.

— Quartz Intelligence Newsroom, Quartz, 31 Jan. 2025