The phrase "wast certain of" is spelled using Middle English orthography. The word "wast" is the second person singular form of the verb "to be" in the past tense, while "certain" means "sure" or "confident." The spelling "certain" remains the same in modern English, but "wast" has evolved into "were." The pronunciation of "wast" is /wɑst/ with the "a" representing the vowel sound found in the word "father." Understanding Middle English spelling can provide insight into the origins and development of the English language.
"Wast certain of" is an archaic phrase primarily used in Middle English literature. It can be dissected into two parts: "wast" and "certain of."
The word "wast" is the second-person singular past tense of the verb "to be" in Middle English. In modern English, it would be equivalent to "were." It implies an action or state of being that occurred in the past.
"Certain of" is a phrase that denotes a high level of confidence, assurance, or certainty about a particular matter or belief. It means being convinced or having no doubt about the truth, accuracy, or success of something.
Putting it together, "wast certain of" signifies that in the past, someone held an unwavering conviction or assurance about a specific issue. This phrase often occurs in poetic or literary contexts, particularly in ancient texts or works of Shakespearean literature.
The use of "wast certain of" illustrates an affirmation of a belief, knowledge, or certainty that existed in a bygone era. It indicates the speaker's confidence or conviction about a past event or a particular state of affairs. This archaic phrase adds a historical charm to the language and serves as a reminder of the evolution of the English language over time.