I certainly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I certainly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express strong agreement or affirmation in a statement or response. Example: "I certainly appreciate your help with this project; it has made a significant difference."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I certainly was not.

The New Yorker

I certainly do not.

The New York Times - Magazine

I certainly had.

The New York Times

And I certainly have.

The New York Times

I certainly didn't".

The New York Times

I certainly blushed.

The New York Times

I certainly can.

The New Yorker

I certainly knew hustlers.

The New York Times - Magazine

I certainly don't know".

Independent

I certainly do.

The New York Times

"Yes, I certainly would.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal writing, use "I certainly" to present your viewpoint confidently, especially when responding to a question or argument.

Common error

Avoid using "I certainly" excessively in casual settings. Overuse can make your speech sound stilted or overly formal, which may not be appropriate for relaxed conversations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I certainly" functions as an emphatic affirmation or agreement. As Ludwig AI shows, it amplifies the speaker's conviction or agreement with a statement. It's used to add weight to the speaker's personal stance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I certainly" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to express strong agreement, affirmation, or conviction. According to Ludwig AI, it is commonly used and generally appropriate in a variety of contexts. Predominantly found in "News & Media", it maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication. To avoid overuse, consider synonyms like "I definitely" or "I absolutely" in more relaxed settings. Use "I certainly" to add emphasis to your viewpoint, particularly when responding to questions or stating your position.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I definitely

Emphasizes certainty and decisiveness in agreement or affirmation. It's a direct synonym, implying a firm conviction.

I most certainly

It's a slightly more emphatic version using "most" to amplify the certainty.

I absolutely

Expresses complete agreement or affirmation. This intensifies the feeling of certainty.

I surely

Indicates confidence or assurance in something. It implies strong belief and expectation.

I unquestionably

Highlights that there is no doubt or question about the matter. Focuses on the indisputable nature of the statement.

Without a doubt, I

Places emphasis on the lack of uncertainty. Shifts the structure to highlight the absence of doubt.

Indeed, I

Confirms a previous statement or adds emphasis. It's a more formal way of expressing agreement.

I wholeheartedly

Expresses agreement or support with great enthusiasm and sincerity. Highlights the emotional aspect of agreement.

I can assure you

Directly conveys a sense of guarantee or promise. Focuses on providing reassurance to the listener.

I concur completely

Expresses formal agreement, often used in professional or academic settings. Emphasizes agreement of opinion.

FAQs

How can I use "I certainly" in a sentence?

Use "I certainly" to express strong agreement or conviction. For example, "I certainly agree with your proposal" or "I certainly hope to see you again soon".

What are some alternatives to "I certainly"?

You can use alternatives like "I definitely", "I absolutely", or "I surely" to convey a similar meaning with slightly different emphasis.

Is it better to say "I certainly" or "certainly I"?

"I certainly" is the standard and more common phrasing. "Certainly, I" can be used, but it is often used at the beginning of a sentence as a way to emphasize the "certainly" part.

What's the difference between "I certainly think so" and "I think so certainly"?

"I certainly think so" places emphasis on the speaker's certainty, while "I think so certainly" is grammatically awkward and not commonly used. The first phrasing is the more natural and correct choice.