HSK 4 · VERSION 2.0#101
Comparing “kěndìng”, “quèdìng”, and “yídìng”
肯定 / 确定 / 一定
How it works
These three words all relate to certainty, but they are different.
The difference
肯定 (kěndìng) = definite / certainly; can also be a verb meaning “affirm”
确定 (quèdìng) = certain / to confirm clearly
一定 (yídìng) = certainly / definitely / must
Example sentences
他一定会来。
He will definitely come.
我还不太确定时间。
I am not yet sure about the time.
这是一个肯定的答案。
This is a definite answer.
老师肯定了他的进步。
The teacher affirmed his progress.
Key point
These words overlap, but their grammar roles are not identical.