Certain = specific / sure in French (adjectives that change meaning according to position)

In French, certain adjectives change their meanings depending if they appear before or after the noun.

The French adjective certain changes meaning according to its position

Look at these uses of certain/certaine:

Un certain hommea particular man

C'est une opportunité certaine.It's a sure opportunity.

Une femme d'un certain âge.A woman of a certain age.

Certains projets sont faciles.Certain projects are easy.

Before the noun, certain/certaine means some or particular: it retains a vagueness here.

After the noun, the meaning of certain is similar to the English one of being sure, certain, unquestionable, definite

Note: generally adjectives appear after the noun, but some very common adjectives go before.

 See also: 

Ancien = former/old (French Adjectives that change meaning according to position) 

Cher= dear/expensive (French Adjectives that change meaning according to position) 

Propre = own/clean (French Adjectives that change meaning according to position) 

Dernier = final/previous (French Adjectives that change meaning according to position)

Vrai = real/true (French Adjectives that change meaning according to position)  

 

Want to make sure your French sounds confident? We’ll map your knowledge and give you free lessons to focus on your gaps and mistakes. Start your Brainmap today »

Learn more about these related French grammar topics

Examples and resources

Un homme certain.A reliable man.
Un certain hommea particular man
C'est une opportunité certaine.It's a sure opportunity.
Certains projets sont faciles.Certain projects are easy.
Une femme d'un certain âge.A woman of a certain age.
I'll be right with you...