Certainement, Bien sûr, Évidemment

Question

When asked for "Of course" why is certainement not an acceptable answer? It seems like a better choice than évidemment as the latter implies an obviousness to the thing asked (to get closer) where certainement just carries a higher degree of being able to do so. Can you clarify? Thank you.

Céline Pickard · Accepted Answer

Bonjour William,
In French, "certainement" means more "for sure" than "obviously / by no means". It's also very formal in French in this context - which, if you look at the context of this dialogue, doesn't fit (i.e. 2 friends talking to one another). So, it can't be accepted here.
I hope this is helpful.
Bonne journée !

Jim Jones · Answer

Bonjour William,Interesting point.Have a look here; you may find it interesting:-https://www.cnrtl.fr/synonymie/certainement/adverbeYou will see a listing of possible synonyms -- the value of which may be further commented upon by a staff expert.Bonne journéeJim

William Strahan · Answer

Bonjour Céline,Thank you for the clarification. The question remains how do we know which to use? The exercise only introduces the English words to look up, without providing any other insights. This requires the learner to translate the word, look up synonyms, and then go on a deep dive to identify the differences in use.