certainly

[ sur-tn-lee ]

adverb

1. with certainty; without doubt; assuredly:

   I'll certainly be there.

2. yes, of course:

   Certainly, take the keys.

3. to be sure; surely:

   He certainly is successful.

certainly

/ ˈsɜːtənlɪ /

adverb

1. with certainty; without doubt

   he certainly rides very well

sentence substitute

1. by all means; definitely: used in answer to questions

Word History and Origins

Origin of certainly¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English; certain + -ly

Example Sentences

He certainly never read it personally but he knew many of the people involved because they had been in his first administration.

From Salon

The run certainly isn't terminal in terms of their bid to win a record-extending fifth straight Premier League title, given they are only five points behind leaders Liverpool and four points clear of third-placed Chelsea.

From BBC

Also: That cast will carry it a long way — certainly to a trophy for international feature.

From Los Angeles Times

“I’m certainly going to begin that way,” said Bass, a Democrat who was sworn into office by Vice President Kamala Harris, in an interview.

From Los Angeles Times

During this Nations League campaign Wales have certainly developed but, as Bellamy has explained, there is naturally work to do and areas to improve.

From BBC

Related Words

• absolutely
• assuredly
• exactly
• surely