a certain bargain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a certain bargain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific deal or agreement that is not explicitly defined or is somewhat ambiguous. Example: "After much negotiation, we finally reached a certain bargain that satisfied both parties."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

But it's important to comprehend, before misunderstandings solidify, that at the right time certain bargains will and must be struck.

The New York Times

Evolutionary explanations of social norms have the virtue of making their value commitments explicit and also of showing how other normative commitments (such as fair division in certain bargaining situations, or cooperation in the prisoner's dilemma) may be derived from the principled action of boundedly rational, self-interested agents.

SEP

One made a certain devil's bargain by voting for Clinton in the first place.

The New Yorker

We're all bargain shoppers to a certain extent and we want to get the cheapest RAM possible, but unless you or a friend know what you're doing then you could buy something that won't even work on your rig and that sucks.

TechCrunch

Still, at $7,000 per square foot, a certain kind of shopper might consider it a bargain.

The New York Times

For a certain class of American consumer, it's actually a bargain.

Los Angeles Times

The defendant thereafter became dissatisfied with his purchase, but finally agreed to stand by the bargain, if certain alterations were made in the house, if it was finished in a certain way, and if certain trees standing upon the lot were cut down.

Harvard University

"Bargains" were let by the setting steward, who would agree a price for a certain area of rock.

Wikipedia

But critics say the mayor should have driven a harder bargain on certain points.

The Washington Post

-- Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker has offered to keep certain collective bargaining rights in place for state workers in a proposed compromise aimed at ending a nearly three-week standoff with absent Senate Democrats, according to e-mails released Tuesday by his office.

The Washington Post

These plans are maintained pursuant to certain collective bargaining agreements.

Duke University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a certain bargain" to subtly suggest that the details of the agreement might not be fully disclosed or are only known to those involved. It adds an element of mystery or exclusivity.

Common error

Avoid using "a certain bargain" if you can be more specific about the terms or nature of the deal. Clarity is always preferable to vagueness, especially in legal or business contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a certain bargain" functions as a noun phrase, where "certain" modifies the noun "bargain". Ludwig AI indicates it's a usable phrase, commonly employed to denote an agreement or deal that isn't fully specified.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a certain bargain" refers to a specific deal or agreement without necessarily specifying all of its details. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While it can be used in various contexts, it often implies an element of discretion or confidentiality. Alternatives include "a specific deal" or "a particular agreement", depending on the desired level of detail. When using the phrase, be mindful of the potential for ambiguity and ensure that the context clarifies the nature of the bargain sufficiently.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific deal

Replaces "certain" with "specific", emphasizing the defined nature of the agreement.

a particular agreement

Uses "particular" instead of "certain", highlighting the distinct nature of the agreement.

a definite bargain

Substitutes "certain" with "definite", stressing the clear and unambiguous nature of the bargain.

a known bargain

Emphasizes the awareness or acknowledgement of the bargain.

a prearranged deal

Highlights that the deal was arranged in advance.

a tacit agreement

Implies an unspoken or implicitly understood agreement.

a private arrangement

Focuses on the confidential or non-public nature of the agreement.

a special offer

Highlights the advantageous nature of the bargain for the consumer.

a limited-time bargain

Focuses on the time-sensitive nature of the bargain.

a one-off deal

Emphasizes that the deal is unique and not part of a regular offering.

FAQs

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

You can use "a certain bargain" when referring to a specific deal or agreement without fully specifying the details. For example, "They reached "a certain bargain" regarding the property rights".

What is a more precise alternative to "a certain bargain"?

Alternatives include "a specific deal", "a particular agreement", or "a definite bargain". The best choice depends on the specific context and what aspect you want to emphasize.

When is it appropriate to use "a certain bargain" instead of a more direct phrase?

It is appropriate when you want to imply some level of confidentiality, or when the specifics of the deal are less important than the fact that an agreement was reached.

Is "a certain bargain" formal or informal language?

The phrase "a certain bargain" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it leans slightly towards the formal side due to the word "certain".