certain · adj
a certain
B2 used before a noun when it is difficult to describe something exactly or give its exact amount
Dictionary examples:
He's got a certain charm. (36.8)
know/say for certain
C1 to know something without doubt
Dictionary examples:
We don't know for certain whether she's coming. (22.8)
certain (PARTICULAR)
B1 used to refer to a particular person or thing without naming or describing them
Dictionary examples:
A certain cat always steals my socks. I think it's building a sock fort! (0.0)
I only sing in certain places. Like the shower, where I'm a superstar! (0.0)
A certain dog in my neighborhood wears sunglasses. He thinks he's so cool! (0.0)
The museum is only open at certain times of the day. (16.9)
certain (SURE TO HAPPEN)
B1 sure to happen, to do something, or to be true
Dictionary examples:
I'm certain my alarm clock will fail on my most important day. (0.0)
It's certain that my phone will die just as I need it most. (0.0)
It's certain that I'll forget someone's name right after being introduced. (0.0)
One thing is certain: she's not coming to my party. (19.8)
How can we make certain that she sees the note? (30.6)
It now looks certain that she will resign. (38.8)
certain (NO DOUBT)
B1 completely sure of something, or knowing without doubt that something is true
Dictionary examples:
I'm certain my cat can read minds. He always knows when I'm thinking about food! (0.0)
Are you certain you want to eat that? It's been in the fridge since last year! (0.0)
I'm certain I'll win the lottery tomorrow. I just need to buy a ticket first! (0.0)
I feel certain (that) you're doing the right thing. (19.0)
I'm not certain how much it will cost. (23.8)
Are you absolutely certain (that) you gave them the right number? (28.3)
He was quite certain about/of his attacker's identity. (61.9)