Expressing Certainty And Uncertainty In English

Introduction

This article explores ways of expressing certainty and uncertainty in English. In our daily interactions, whether discussing future events or pondering possibilities, mastering these expressions is crucial for effective communication.

Let’s understand what certainty and uncertainty mean and list a variety of phrases to express them confidently.

Expressing Certainty and uncertainty

Certainty is the state of being completely confident or having no doubt about something. However, uncertainty is when nothing is ever decided or sure.

Expressing certainty

When you are confident about the outcome of a future event, these expressions can help convey your certainty:

For instance, when asked, “Will John pass the exam?” you can respond:

• Yes, I’m absolutely sure.
• Quite sure.
• Certain.
• Positive he will.
• Definitely.
• Certainly.
• Of course.

On the contrary, if you are certain about the negative outcome:

• No, I’m absolutely sure.
• Quite sure.
• Certain.
• Positive he won’t.
• Definitely not.
• Certainly not.
• Of course not.

Yes,	I’m	absolutely sure quite sure certain positive	he will.
	definitely. certainly. of course.

or

No,	I’m	absolutely sure quite sure certain positive	he won’t.
	definitely not. certainly not. of course not.

Expressing Uncertainty

Conversely, when you’re uncertain about the likelihood of an event, these expressions can assist in conveying your doubts:

For instance, when asked, “Will John pursue a career in business?” you might respond:

• Well, it’s possible.
• It’s impossible.
• It might be.
• It might not be.
• It could happen, I suppose, but I wouldn’t like to say for certain.
• I’m not sure.
• I doubt it.
• I have my own doubts.
• It’s doubtful.
• It’s highly / very unlikely.
• You never know, of course.
• No one can know for certain.
• I can’t tell you for sure.

Well,	it’s possible, it’s impossible, it might be, it might not be, it could happen,	I suppose,	but	I wouldn’t like to say for certain. I’m not sure I doubt it. I have my own doubts. it’s doubtful. It’s highly / very unlikely.
	you never know of course, no one can know for certain. I can’t tell you for sure.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mastering the art of expressing certainty and uncertainty greatly enhances your English communication skills. Whether confidently predicting future events or acknowledging the unpredictability of life, these expressions provide you with the tools to navigate conversations with clarity and precision. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll wield these expressions with confidence in your everyday interactions.