is it certain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is it certain" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when questioning the reliability or assurance of a particular statement or situation. Example: "Before we proceed with the plan, I need to ask, is it certain that we have the necessary funding?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Nor is it certain that the government can keep its fiscal vows.Passed last month in response to a drying up of credit, the "zero deficit" law prohibits the government from spending more than it raises in taxes.

The Economist

Just as one rating agency, Moody's, is considering upgrading India's external debt, another, Fitch, has warned that its local-currency rating is under threat.Nor is it certain that opening the capital account would mean a weaker rupee.

The Economist

Nor is it certain that Ahold can grow organically.

The Economist

Nor is it certain that the militias will be satisfied.

The Economist

Nor is it certain to fix the Balkans's many troubles.

The Economist

Nor is it certain just what the short-term relief will look like.

The Economist

Nor is it certain that the asbestos substitutes now used in the West are safe.

The Economist

Neither is it certain that Mr de la Rua will finish his term.

The Economist

"But is it certain that she did that to hide a murder?

The New York Times

Nor is it certain that Boehner's proposal can pass his own House.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Nor is it at all certain.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "is it certain" with a specific condition or outcome. This adds clarity and focuses the inquiry on the particular aspect you're questioning.

Common error

Avoid using "is it certain" as a mere rhetorical question without a genuine need for clarification. Ensure the inquiry serves a clear purpose in the conversation or writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is it certain" functions primarily as an interrogative clause, used to question the level of assurance or predictability regarding a particular statement or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is it certain" serves as a crucial tool for questioning the reliability or predictability of information. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and frequently used in written English. Appearing most often in news media and scientific publications, its neutral register makes it appropriate for various contexts. When looking for alternatives, "can we be sure" or "is it guaranteed" offer similar ways to express doubt or seek assurance. By understanding its function, purpose, and usage patterns, writers can effectively employ "is it certain" to promote critical thinking and informed discussion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can we be sure

Focuses on the level of assurance one has about something.

is it guaranteed

Emphasizes whether there is a formal assurance or promise.

is there any doubt

Highlights the presence of uncertainty or skepticism.

is it beyond question

Asks if something is so certain that it cannot be doubted.

is it beyond a doubt

Similar to 'is it beyond question', emphasizing the absence of uncertainty.

is it without question

Implies the matter is settled and not open to debate.

can it be taken as read

Suggests acceptance of something without further discussion or proof.

is it necessarily so

Challenges the assumption that something must be true.

is it definitely the case

Requests confirmation that something is unequivocally true.

is it an established fact

Asks if something has been proven and widely accepted as true.

FAQs

How can I use "is it certain" in a sentence?

You can use "is it certain" to question the reliability or assurance of something. For example: "Is it certain that we have the resources before starting the project?"

What can I say instead of "is it certain"?

Alternatives include "can we be sure", "is it guaranteed", or "is there any doubt", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "is it certain" or "is it for certain"?

"Is it certain" is the more common and grammatically standard phrase. "Is it for certain" is less frequent and may sound slightly informal.

What's the difference between "is it certain" and "is it possible"?

"Is it certain" questions the level of assurance or predictability, while "is it possible" simply explores whether something is feasible or achievable. They address different aspects of a situation.