a certain attitude

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a certain attitude" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific mindset or disposition that is not explicitly defined but is understood in context. Example: "In order to succeed in this competitive environment, one must adopt a certain attitude towards challenges."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And the Gators also played with a certain attitude.

The New York Times - Sports

There's a certain work ethic, a certain attitude, a certain humility.

The New York Times

A lack of walls and cubicles, with eclectic art on the walls, embodies a certain attitude.

The New York Times

I think the nostalgia mostly has to do with a certain attitude toward life.

The New Yorker

"I created things to capture a certain attitude, like steam punk or old timey sailor".

The New York Times

"He taught me about a certain attitude you got to have as a reliever.

The New York Times - Sports

"And insurance coverage signals a certain attitude about medical appropriateness or necessity".

The New York Times

"You adopt a certain attitude when you feel like you have something that's not appreciated.

The Guardian

Both characters have a family trade they're pushed toward and have a certain attitude of resistance".

The New York Times

Her clients, mostly professional women, are of a certain attitude -- never say age, Ms. DeLillo said.

The New York Times - Travel

"It showed that TV offered liberation if you committed to a certain attitude.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a certain attitude" when referring to a generally understood, but not explicitly defined, disposition or mindset. It's effective when the specific qualities are implied within the context.

Common error

Avoid using "a certain attitude" as a placeholder when you can be more specific. If the attitude can be clearly defined, doing so will strengthen your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a certain attitude" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes a particular but unspecified mindset or disposition, implying a quality or characteristic that influences behavior or perspective. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is considered correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

27%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a certain attitude" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to allude to a particular, though not explicitly defined, mindset or disposition. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and encyclopedia-based writing. While effective for implying a general disposition, it's crucial to avoid vagueness and consider whether a more specific description would enhance clarity. Alternatives like "a particular mindset" or "a specific disposition" can offer greater precision when needed. By understanding its function, purpose, and potential for overuse, writers can effectively leverage "a certain attitude" to convey subtle nuances in their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a particular mindset

Replaces "attitude" with "mindset", emphasizing a specific set of beliefs and thoughts.

a certain way of thinking

Breaks down "attitude" into its cognitive component, focusing on thought processes.

a specific disposition

Substitutes "attitude" with "disposition", highlighting an inherent quality of character or temperament.

a definite outlook

Uses "outlook" instead of "attitude", focusing on a way of viewing or understanding things.

a characteristic approach

Replaces "attitude" with "approach", emphasizing a method or way of dealing with situations.

a unique perspective

Focuses on a distinct point of view, rather than a general attitude.

a marked tendency

Highlights a prevailing inclination or habit, differing from a general attitude.

a notable demeanor

Emphasizes outward behavior and conduct, which can reflect an underlying attitude.

a distinct manner

Focuses on a particular style or way of doing things, related to but not synonymous with attitude.

a peculiar inclination

Highlights a specific leaning or preference that might stem from a certain attitude.

FAQs

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

Use "a certain attitude" to describe a particular way of thinking or behaving that is implied but not explicitly defined. For example, "Success in this field requires "a certain attitude" toward risk."

What phrases can replace "a certain attitude"?

Alternatives include "a particular mindset", "a specific disposition", or "a definite outlook", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to be specific instead of using "a certain attitude"?

While "a certain attitude" can be useful for implying a general disposition, being more specific about the attitude in question will often make your writing clearer and more impactful. The choice depends on the context and your desired level of detail.

What does it mean to have "a certain attitude" toward something?

To have "a certain attitude" toward something means to approach it with a particular mindset, disposition, or feeling. This phrase suggests that the way someone thinks about or behaves in relation to something is influenced by a specific, though perhaps not explicitly stated, outlook.