to be completely certain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be completely certain" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a strong level of confidence or assurance about something. Example: "I need to double-check the calculations to be completely certain that the results are accurate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

A central bank does not need to be completely certain to act.

The Economist

But even if we were able to be completely certain that all death row inmates were guilty, we should still oppose the death penalty.

The Guardian - Opinion

While there is no way to be completely certain, the ESA believes China's ground teams lost control of the space station and it will make an uncontrolled re-entry.

Forbes

But it is not possible to be completely certain.

Plosone

You have to be completely certain this is what you want to do.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

We excluded patients known to be HIV infected but cannot be completely certain that some were not missed as HIV testing was not routinely performed in this patient group over the course of the study.

BMC Infectious Diseases

Sufficient fabrication information is needed so that fabricators can be completely certain concerning how to actually build the form.

Automation in Construction

However, the RRE sequence had to be significantly altered to obtain usable crystals for imaging, so we cannot be completely certain that the complexes formed are functional.

eLife

Without a group of participants performing sham exercise or in a control group we cannot be completely certain that the results of our study are attributable to participation in exercise.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

Although allowances had been made for social circumstances, Dr Yvonne Kelly, the lead researcher, said they could not be completely certain that the children's better performance was not linked to their family background.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"There is a historical Arab propensity to try to work out 'deals.' Even though we knew the Saudis well, and trusted them, we could not be completely certain what course they would take.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context. In some situations, a degree of uncertainty is acceptable or even expected. Acknowledging limitations can enhance trustworthiness.

Common error

Avoid using "to be completely certain" when the evidence is weak or incomplete. Exaggerated claims can damage your reputation for accuracy and sound judgment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be completely certain" typically functions as part of a verb phrase, often expressing a state of mind or a degree of confidence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to be completely certain" is used to express a strong belief or conviction, often backed by evidence or understanding. While grammatically correct and usable, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's important to use it judiciously and avoid overstating claims without adequate support. Alternatives such as "to be absolutely sure" or "to be fully confident" may be more appropriate in contexts where absolute certainty is not warranted. The phrase appears most frequently in News & Media and Science contexts, suggesting its relevance in both factual reporting and scientific discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be absolutely sure

Emphasizes a lack of doubt, intensifying the certainty.

to be entirely convinced

Focuses on internal conviction rather than external proof, emphasizing belief.

to be fully confident

Highlights assurance and self-belief in a situation or outcome.

to be totally positive

Suggests a strong, optimistic certainty, focusing on a favorable outcome.

to have no doubt

Indicates a firm belief without any reservations or uncertainties.

to rest assured

Offers reassurance and implies that no further action or worry is necessary.

to take it as gospel

Implies unquestioning acceptance, often of a statement or piece of information.

to bet your bottom dollar

An idiomatic expression emphasizing high confidence and willingness to wager.

to swear on a stack of bibles

An idiomatic expression used to declare the sincerity and truthfulness of statement.

to know beyond a shadow of a doubt

Indicates absolute certainty with no room for questioning or uncertainty.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "to be completely certain" in writing?

Use "to be completely certain" when you want to express a high degree of confidence or assurance, backed by solid evidence or understanding. Avoid using it when there's room for doubt or uncertainty.

What are some alternatives to "to be completely certain"?

You can use alternatives like "to be absolutely sure", "to be entirely convinced", or "to be fully confident" depending on the context and nuance you wish to convey.

How does "to be completely certain" differ from "to be fairly certain"?

"To be completely certain" implies a total lack of doubt, while "to be fairly certain" suggests a moderate level of confidence, with some possibility of error or uncertainty.

Is it ever better to express uncertainty rather than trying "to be completely certain"?

Yes, especially when dealing with complex or unpredictable situations. Acknowledging limitations and expressing a degree of uncertainty can enhance your credibility and demonstrate intellectual honesty.