Synonym Chooser

How does the noun certitude differ from other similar words?

The words certainty and conviction are common synonyms of certitude. While all three words mean "a state of being free from doubt," certitude may emphasize a faith in something not needing or not capable of proof.

believes with certitude in an afterlife

How do certainty and certitude relate to one another?

Both certainty and certitude are very close; certainty may stress the existence of objective proof.

claims that cannot be confirmed with scientific certainty

When would conviction be a good substitute for certitude?

The words conviction and certitude are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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 certitude The point of the game is to take satisfaction in killing with moral certitude. G Kirilloff, Forbes, 25 Nov. 2024 To me, Cardinal Lawrence gives a beautiful speech at the beginning of the film, talking about the evil of certitude and the moral preciousness of doubt. Destiny Jackson, Deadline, 14 Nov. 2024 Speaking to Basso feels a bit like being a cast member on that show: His certitude buoys the conversation even as twists and abstractions come into play. Daniel D'addario, Variety, 21 Jan. 2025 Their consultations and fittings are often quick and to the point, due largely to Trump’s certitude from years in fashion, Pierre has said. Rosemary Feitelberg, WWD, 20 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for certitude
Recent Examples of Synonyms for certitude
Noun
  • But that's just about the only certainty in what could otherwise be a night full of intrigue and surprises.
    Rebecca Morin, USA Today, 25 Apr. 2025
  • Without certainty of funding, the project may not advance as originally planned and Denverites will pay the price.
    Jill Locantore, Denver Post, 25 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • That means aid workers have no assurance the military won’t strike them.
    Wafaa Shurafa, Los Angeles Times, 17 Apr. 2025
  • The gap between vague assurances and complex data fuels frustration among those waiting.
    Shahar Ziv, Forbes.com, 17 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • For months, Beijing has been projecting an air of strength and confidence in its ability to withstand an escalating trade war with the US.
    John Liu, CNN Money, 25 Apr. 2025
  • Correlation isn’t causation, but continuity and confidence just might be contagious.
    Grant Brisbee, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • According to a state spokesperson Weinstein remains in custody because of his Los Angeles conviction and sentence.
    Isabella Gomez Sarmiento, NPR, 20 Apr. 2025
  • Weinstein has been transported to New York City's Bellevue Hospital several times since he was sentenced to 23 years in prison following his conviction on rape charges in February 2020.
    KiMi Robinson, USA Today, 20 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Certitude.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/certitude. Accessed 30 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on certitude

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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