I cannot be certain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I cannot be certain" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing doubt or uncertainty about a situation or information. Example: "Based on the evidence presented, I cannot be certain of the outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Of course, real time economic theorizing is problematic, and I cannot be certain that I am reading the current situation accurately.

The Washington Post

This is a convenience sample, so I cannot be certain that the results represent how all Republicans would respond to Ivanka.

The Washington Post

I cannot be certain that my memories of her correspond to the reality, but when I think about it I have the sense that she was barely sixteen years old.

The New Yorker

I cannot be certain, but I am also uneasy that they are suspicious of anything they hear from an older clinician that they have not seen on the internet, fostering a distrust of experience.

The New York Times

We finished with a dismal pancake coated in egg, deep fried, then drizzled with thin honey and garnished with a cockroach (the latter I suspect to have been a stowaway, but I cannot be certain).

The New York Times - Magazine

"However, in the light of what has now been revealed I cannot be certain that we are at that point.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

With all my hindsight, and with thehindsight of many not always illuminating and often partialcommentaries, I still cannot be certain.

The New York Times - Books

I also think, but cannot be certain, that the two faced each other again last year, in a friendly match on Valentine's Day (romantic).

The Guardian - Sport

I had thought I had previously asked for it to be cancelled but cannot be certain of this.

BBC

"I don't think it's possible, especially since you cannot be certain about the presence of C.T.E.

The New Yorker

We cannot be certain.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting evidence or analysis, use "I cannot be certain" to acknowledge the limits of your conclusions and maintain credibility. This demonstrates intellectual honesty and avoids overstating your findings.

Common error

Avoid using "I cannot be certain" excessively in a single piece of writing. Overuse can make your writing seem hesitant or lacking in confidence. Vary your language by using synonyms or rephrasing your sentences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I cannot be certain" functions as a statement of uncertainty or lack of definitive knowledge. As seen in Ludwig's examples, it's commonly used to qualify claims, express doubt, or acknowledge the limits of one's knowledge.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

24%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I cannot be certain" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to express uncertainty or a lack of complete knowledge. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its frequent use in news, science, and academic contexts. While generally neutral to formal, it's most suitable for professional and academic writing. Be mindful of overuse to maintain clarity and confidence in your writing. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is a valid way to express uncertainty.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I'm not sure

A more informal and direct way to express uncertainty.

I am uncertain

A slightly more formal synonym for "I'm not sure".

I can't say for sure

Emphasizes the inability to provide a definite answer.

It's hard to say

Shifts the focus to the difficulty of knowing something.

I have my doubts

Indicates a level of skepticism or distrust.

I wouldn't bet on it

Expresses a low expectation of something happening.

I'm not convinced

Indicates a lack of belief or persuasion.

The outcome is uncertain

Focuses on the uncertainty of the result, rather than the speaker's knowledge.

It remains to be seen

Indicates that the truth or outcome will be revealed in the future.

I'm speculating here

Emphasizes the speaker is making an educated guess with no concrete proof.

FAQs

How can I use "I cannot be certain" in a sentence?

You can use "I cannot be certain" to express doubt or uncertainty about something. For example, "Based on the current data, "I cannot be certain" if the project will be successful."

What are some alternatives to "I cannot be certain"?

Alternatives to "I cannot be certain" include "I'm not sure", "I am uncertain", or "I can't say for sure". The best choice depends on the context and level of formality.

Is it better to say "I cannot be certain" or "I am not sure"?

"I cannot be certain" is slightly more formal than "I'm not sure." Both are correct, but "I cannot be certain" suggests a more deliberate and reasoned uncertainty, while "I'm not sure" is more casual.

In what situations should I use "I cannot be certain"?

Use "I cannot be certain" when you want to express uncertainty in a professional or academic context. It's suitable when presenting findings, offering opinions, or discussing topics where definitive answers are unavailable.