a certain argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a certain argument" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific argument that is not named or detailed, often in a context where the argument is understood by the audience. Example: "In the debate, she presented a certain argument that resonated with many of the attendees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

… Now, there was a certain argument that says, "Why don't you go to Kandahar first?" Well, the first thing: Kandahar wasn't under siege.

The New York Times

At the heart of Cohen's account is a certain argument, which he calls his 'Master Argument'.

SEP

In individual cases, designers may choose a certain argument or negotiation terminology over others.

Research and Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning

There is a certain argument used by boosters of last year's stimulus package that urges would-be critics on the left not to miss the forest for the trees.

Huffington Post

Given that we are only interested in the acceptance of a certain argument, we might directly try to produce a witness (or counter-example) for this argument instead of computing all extensions.

Artificial Intelligence

If your documentary is trying to prove a certain argument, you may want to make use of these to relay facts that prove your argument.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

There are a number of ways of developing this criticism but much recent work has concentrated on a certain line of argument that Saul Kripke has found in the work of Wittgenstein (1982).

SEP

McDowell has suggested that in showing how the disjunctive account he recommends allows us to resist the tempting line of argument that he considers, he has shown us how to "remove a prop" upon which a certain line of sceptical argument depends.

SEP

I've never quite trusted the "99% certain" argument since.

The Guardian - Opinion

You want to avoid falling into certain argument fallacies.

WikiHow

The justices' concern seemed animated by their own experience as lawyers, and they were troubled by the notion of having to represent a client with certain arguments foreclosed.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a certain argument", ensure the context provides enough information for the reader to understand the general topic or stance without requiring exhaustive detail. This creates a sense of shared understanding and avoids unnecessary digressions.

Common error

Avoid using "a certain argument" excessively without ever clarifying the specifics. While it's useful for brevity, consistently failing to provide details can make your writing seem evasive or lacking in substance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a certain argument" functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in referring to a specific, yet not explicitly detailed, line of reasoning or point of contention.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a certain argument" is a useful tool for referring to a specific argument without necessarily detailing it, often implying shared knowledge or focusing on its impact. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts such as news media, science, and wiki articles. It is important to balance the brevity offered by this phrase with the need for clarity, avoiding vagueness. Consider using alternatives like "a specific contention" or "a particular line of reasoning" when greater precision is required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific contention

Replaces "argument" with a more formal word, suggesting a point made during a debate or discussion.

a particular line of reasoning

Focuses on the logical progression of the argument, highlighting the method of thinking used.

a definite assertion

Emphasizes the confidence and clarity of the statement being made.

a given rationale

Implies a pre-existing justification that is being considered or referenced.

a precise claim

Highlights the exactness and detail of the argument being presented.

a determined position

Stresses the firm stance taken in the argument.

a selected justification

Suggests that the argument was chosen from a set of possible reasons.

a designated explanation

Highlights that the argument serves as a clear, assigned reason.

a known debate

Implies the argument is an existing, widely discussed topic.

a distinct point

Emphasizes the clarity and uniqueness of the argument.

FAQs

How can I use "a certain argument" in a sentence?

Use "a certain argument" when referring to a specific argument without detailing it exhaustively, implying shared knowledge or focusing on its impact rather than its content. For example, "There is "a certain argument" used by boosters of last year's stimulus package that urges would-be critics on the left not to miss the forest for the trees."

What phrases can I use instead of "a certain argument"?

Alternatives include "a specific contention", "a particular line of reasoning", or "a definite assertion", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to use "a certain argument" or describe the argument in detail?

It depends on the context. Use "a certain argument" for brevity when the details are not crucial or are already understood. If the argument itself is the focus, describing it explicitly is better.

When is it inappropriate to use "a certain argument"?

Avoid using "a certain argument" when the reader requires specific details to understand your point or when the vagueness obscures the meaning. Overusing it can make your writing seem unclear or lacking in substance.