Explore the origins, meanings, and cultural relevance of the phrase 'a sure thing,' tracing its evolution from a 19th-century betting term to a modern expression of certainty.
A “sure thing” refers to an event or outcome that is considered an absolute certainty. In contemporary usage, it denotes something that is guaranteed to happen or succeed.
The expression “a sure thing” emerged in the first half of the 19th century, originally in the context of gambling. It described a bet that was perceived as impossible to lose. This notion of certainty in wagering reflects the phrase’s roots in the gambling culture of the time. By the late 1800s, the term had broadened in meaning, being used more generally to signify certainty in various contexts. The phrase also appears without the article “a,” serving as a colloquial affirmation equivalent to “yes” or “certainly.”
The phrase “a sure thing” carries connotations of reliability and predictability. It is often employed to express confidence in the outcome of an event or decision. The phrase can also imply a level of risklessness, suggesting that the anticipated result is beyond doubt. In its alternative usage as “sure thing,” the phrase functions as a casual affirmation, conveying agreement or consent.
In contemporary culture, “a sure thing” is frequently used in both informal and formal contexts to denote certainty. It appears in literature and media, often to underscore the inevitability of an outcome. For instance, in Jane Smiley’s Horse Heaven (2000), the phrase is used to convey the paradoxical nature of certainty in gambling:
“Curtis, you’ve been around the racetrack for twenty-five years or more. Don’t you know that the only sure thing is that a sure thing is never a sure thing?” - Jane Smiley, Horse Heaven (2000)
In professional settings, “a sure thing” might be used to describe a project or investment with guaranteed returns. Socially, it can be used to express confidence in plans or arrangements. In literary contexts, the phrase may be employed to explore themes of certainty and unpredictability.
The phrase “a sure thing” remains relevant in modern discourse, with its dual meanings of certainty and affirmation ensuring its continued usage. Its durability is rated as ★★★★☆, reflecting its persistent applicability across various contexts.
“Curtis, you’ve been around the racetrack for twenty-five years or more. Don’t you know that the only sure thing is that a sure thing is never a sure thing?” - Jane Smiley, Horse Heaven (2000)