Use

We use adverbs of certainty to say how confident we are that something is true. Adverbs of certainty describe verbs and adjectives.

Example:

He is probably late because there is delay.

Explanation:

We use the adverb of certainty probably to express that the speaker is reasonably sure that delay is the reason he is late.

How to build

Common adverbs of certainty are certainly, definitely, probably, undoubtedly, and surely.

Generally, we use adverbs of certainty before the main verb.

• He definitely drunk the last glass.

If we use the verb ‘to be,’ the adverb of certainty follows the verb.

• He is certainly happy that he won the match.

If there is an auxiliary verb, adverbs of certainty come between the auxiliary and the main verb.

• He will probably finish on time.

Adverbs of certainty can also come at the beginning of the sentence and are followed by a comma.

• Undoubtedly, he is the best football player.

More Examples

• Certainly, I locked the door when I left.

• A used bike definitely costs less than a new one.