utterly certain

USAGE SUMMARY

'utterly certain' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to emphasize that you are absolutely sure of something, e.g. "I am utterly certain that I made the right decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

And I realize that nobody could be utterly certain of a diagnosis made in such a crisis.

The New York Times - Magazine

I occasionally wake up in the middle of the night, utterly certain that no one will ever advertise again.

The Guardian

If you want to be utterly certain your books never offend anyone, you'll have to remove quite a few more volumes than that.

The New York Times - Magazine

Reebok is in love with Venus Williams, and is utterly certain that being a joyful, powerful tennis player and blossoming fashion symbol makes her worthy of a five-year, $40 million endorsement contract.

The New York Times - Sports

And so it was—if you were utterly certain about where both demand and supply were headed.

Forbes

How is it that you are utterly certain that you are right?

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Cult Cosmetics Besides being utterly essential, certain cosmetics acquire fetish status.

The New York Times - Magazine

This is all stuff that's been proven to resonate with (and utterly manipulate) certain American audiences who also willingly hand over their cash to obvious flimflam artists claiming to provide salvation.

Huffington Post

Those lives might well have changed again a few times, but that extraordinarily potent combination of idealistic heart-on-sleeve leftwing politics, perfect pitch musical heritage and impeccable rebel style was utterly irresistible to a certain sort of male who came to musical consciousness sometime in the late 70s.

The Guardian - Books

But I was forced to recognize that this was utterly hopeless until I possessed certain definite knowledge of the controversial points.

The Economist

On the other hand, the effect of certain films can be utterly lost when inauthentic locations are substituted for genuine ones.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity and impact, follow "utterly certain" with a specific explanation of the basis for your certainty.

Common error

Avoid using "utterly certain" in casual conversation or informal writing where a simpler phrase like "really sure" or "positive" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "utterly certain" functions as an intensifier (utterly) modifying an adjective (certain). It expresses a high degree of confidence or conviction. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is used correctly.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

12%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "utterly certain" is a valid and grammatically sound phrase used to express a strong sense of conviction. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correctness and utility in written English. While it is not as common as other expressions of certainty, it adds emphasis to your statements, especially in news reporting and analytical contexts. Remember to use it when you want to leave no doubt about your conviction but consider other options in informal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

absolutely sure

Implies a complete lack of doubt, similar to "utterly certain" but with a slightly less formal tone.

unequivocally sure

Stresses the lack of ambiguity or hesitation in one's certainty.

completely convinced

Focuses on the state of being persuaded, rather than just being sure.

beyond any doubt

Indicates that there is no room for uncertainty or skepticism.

without question

Emphasizes that something is undeniably true.

fully persuaded

Indicates a complete and settled conviction.

entirely positive

Highlights a positive affirmation with no reservations.

firmly believe

Emphasizes a strong and unwavering conviction.

totally confident

Conveys a strong sense of assurance and self-belief.

dead certain

An informal idiom that conveys absolute certainty but is less formal than "utterly certain".

FAQs

How can I use "utterly certain" in a sentence?

You can use "utterly certain" to express a strong conviction. For example, "I am "utterly certain" that this is the right course of action".

What are some alternatives to "utterly certain"?

Some alternatives include "absolutely sure", "completely convinced", or "entirely positive". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it better to say "utterly certain" or "absolutely certain"?

"Utterly certain" and "absolutely certain" are both correct, but "utterly certain" is slightly more formal and emphasizes the completeness of your conviction.

What does it mean to be "utterly certain"?

To be "utterly certain" means to have no doubts whatsoever about something. It signifies a state of complete conviction and assurance.