- Published on
(A proofreader's note regarding “certainty” and “certitude”)
Since “certainty” and “certitude” are centered on “certain,”
Let's see what its meanings would find:
“Dependable,” “settled,” “inevitable,” “fail-safe,”
“Assured well in action or mind.”
When “certainty” postures as “something that's certain,”
These adjectives stand there on hand.
Elsewhere as its role is “the state of being certain,”
A part that's more mental and grand.
This “absolute conviction” as meaning of “certainty”
Arises for “certitude” as well,
Synonymous with “certainty” across the full gamut
Except as one's attitude might tell.
For “certitude” is favored when point of view mental
Relates to beliefs more than facts;
This “freedom from doubting” is taken as valid
Though some may consider it lax.
“Emboldening his comment was constancy of friendship,
A 'certainty' of numerous years.
He said that her stance was of 'certitude' surely
And saw that she still had no fears.”