a certain commitment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a certain commitment" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific level or type of commitment that is not precisely defined but is understood in context. Example: "In order to succeed in this project, we need a certain commitment from all team members to meet our deadlines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

Which shows a certain commitment.

The Guardian

There is a certain commitment to contributing that you don't get with other social networks.

The Guardian - Arts

Jubilate is not an easy read: metaphysical debate demands a certain commitment from the reader.

The Guardian - Books

It's liberty where you have the infrastructures of society that make it possible, and one of the elements is a certain commitment to equality.

The New Yorker

But when it's a family member and blood is involved, and there's a certain commitment and understanding of a culture, it just makes it a lot more enriching.

The New York Times

Charter schools cannot hand-pick high-quality students, but the fact that their families sought out the school suggests a certain commitment to education.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

The proposed LIGAP method can quantify a well-defined probabilistic specificity score for each gene and for each condition promoting a certain lineage commitment.

BMC Genomics

Based on its knowledge on its goals and practical possibilities, an agent may make certain commitments.

Artificial Intelligence

If Solo failed to meet certain commitments, Vestar could elect a majority to the board.

Forbes

A certain number of nations are going to make certain commitments to redesign their accounting.

The New York Times

Certain commitments are very tightly bound up with a person's sense of who he is, while others are not.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a certain commitment", ensure the context provides enough information for the reader to understand the scope and nature of the commitment without needing overly specific details. This phrase is most effective when the specifics are either implied or less important than the fact of the commitment itself.

Common error

Avoid using "a certain commitment" as a vague placeholder for more precise language. If the nature of the commitment is crucial, specify it directly. Overusing vague phrases can weaken your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a certain commitment" functions as a noun phrase, where "certain" modifies the noun "commitment". It indicates an unspecified degree or type of dedication or obligation. As Ludwig AI pointed out, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a certain commitment" is a versatile phrase used to indicate the need for dedication or obligation without being overly specific. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and business. While the phrase is generally neutral in tone, it's important to ensure clarity and avoid vagueness by providing sufficient context. Alternatives such as "a specific dedication" or "a particular obligation" can be used when more precision is needed. The frequency of "a certain commitment" is common, and it appears in authoritative sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific dedication

Focuses on the specific nature of the dedication rather than implying a general commitment.

a particular obligation

Highlights the obligatory aspect of the commitment, emphasizing duty or responsibility.

a defined involvement

Emphasizes the clarity and boundaries of the commitment, suggesting a well-structured participation.

a demonstrable allegiance

Stresses the outward expression of commitment, portraying loyalty and support.

a marked investment

Underscores the resources and effort dedicated, implying a significant contribution.

a clear undertaking

Highlights the explicit nature of the commitment as an agreed-upon task or responsibility.

a resolute dedication

Emphasizes the unwavering and determined nature of the commitment.

a firm pledge

Stresses the binding and assured nature of the commitment, akin to a promise.

a stated intention

Highlights the expressed aim or purpose, framing the commitment as a declared objective.

a guaranteed contribution

Emphasizes the assured delivery or impact of the commitment, suggesting a reliable input.

FAQs

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

Use "a certain commitment" to indicate a level of dedication or responsibility without specifying the exact details. For example, "The project requires "a certain commitment" from all team members".

What are some alternatives to "a certain commitment"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "a specific dedication", "a particular obligation", or "a defined involvement".

When is it appropriate to use "a certain commitment" instead of being more specific?

It's appropriate when the exact details of the commitment are less important than the fact that a commitment exists. Also if the sentence intends to express a high level of responsability.

Is "a certain commitment" formal or informal language?

It is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal settings might benefit from more precise language when possible.