certainly

4 definitions • 8 examples

used to reply completely or to emphasize something and show that there is no doubt about it:

She certainly had a friend called Mark, but I don't know whether he was her boyfriend.

"This is rather a difficult question." "Yes, it's certainly not easy."

"Do you think more money should be given to education?" "Certainly!"

"Had you forgotten about our anniversary?" "Certainly not! I've reserved a table at Michel's restaurant for this evening."

used when agreeing or disagreeing strongly to a request:

"Could you lend me £10?" "Certainly."

"Did you take any money out of my purse?" "Certainly not!"

very likely to happen:

She will certainly win the election if the opinion polls are accurate.

When said in answer to a question asking for help, certainly means yes:

"Can you give me a hand?" "Certainly."