Inklingo

How to Say "certainty" in Spanish

English → Spanish

certeza

sair-TAY-sah/θeɾˈte.θa/

nounB1general
Use 'certeza' when referring to the abstract state or fact of being sure about something, often as a subjective feeling or conviction.
A brightly colored, simple puzzle piece dropping perfectly into its final matching space in a larger, solid shape, symbolizing certainty and assurance.

Examples

Tengo la certeza de que mañana hará sol.

I have the certainty that it will be sunny tomorrow.

Necesitamos más datos para tener absoluta certeza.

We need more data to have absolute certainty (sureness).

Ella habló con tanta certeza que nadie dudó de su palabra.

She spoke with such certainty that no one doubted her word.

Gender Reminder

'Certeza' is always a feminine noun, so you must use 'la' (the) or 'una' (a) before it, like 'la certeza' or 'una certeza'.

Using 'Con Certeza'

To express something definitely happened or will happen, use the phrase 'con certeza.' It acts like an adverb: 'Lo sé con certeza' (I know it for sure).

Mixing with Adjectives

Mistake: “Using *cierto* (the adjective 'certain') when you need the noun: 'Yo quiero cierto.'”

Correction: Use the full noun phrase: 'Yo quiero tener la certeza.' (I want to have the certainty.)

seguridad

/se-goo-ree-DAHD//seɣuɾiˈðað/

nounB1general
Use 'seguridad' when describing the manner or outward display of being confident and sure of oneself, especially when speaking or performing.
A young person standing tall and confidently on the peak of a small, stable mountain, symbolizing self-assurance.

Examples

Habló con mucha seguridad durante la entrevista.

He spoke with a lot of confidence during the interview.

Necesitas tener más seguridad en ti misma.

You need to have more confidence in yourself.

Tengo la seguridad de que todo saldrá bien.

I have the certainty that everything will turn out well.

'Seguridad' vs. 'Confianza'

Mistake: “Using 'confianza' when you mean certainty.”

Correction: 'Seguridad' is best when you are sure of a fact. 'Tengo la seguridad de que 2+2=4.' (I'm certain that 2+2=4). 'Confianza' is more about trust in a person or process. 'Tengo confianza en ti.' (I trust you).

Certeza vs. Seguridad: Confidence vs. Conviction

Learners often confuse 'certeza' and 'seguridad' because both imply being sure. Remember that 'certeza' is about the inner conviction or factual certainty, while 'seguridad' is about the outward expression of confidence.

Related Translations

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