a certain distance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a certain distance' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an amount of space, time, or other measurement that is unspecified. For example, "We drove a certain distance before stopping for lunch."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I kept a certain distance from him.

The New York Times

"There was a certain distance there".

The New York Times

He kept a certain distance.

The New Yorker

For art, you need a certain distance.

The Guardian - Opinion

From a certain distance, he resembles John Grisham.

The Washington Post

They just said a certain distance every second.

The New Yorker

Nonetheless, she tries to keep a certain distance.

The New York Times

They must be a certain distance from competitors.

The New York Times

Maybe there's a certain distance from which I am lovable.

The New Yorker

This is something that requires a certain distance," he concluded.

The New Yorker

He radiates warmth and kindness, but also a certain distance.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a certain distance" when you want to indicate a distance without being precise. For example, "Keep "a certain distance" from the machinery for safety."

Common error

Avoid using "a certain distance" if the context requires a precise measurement. Instead, provide the exact measurement. For example, instead of "The houses must be built "a certain distance" apart", specify "The houses must be built 10 meters apart".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a certain distance" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun (usually implied or directly stated), indicating an unspecified measurement of length or space. Ludwig AI indicates this usage is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

26%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a certain distance" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe an unspecified separation or interval. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is widely used in news, scientific, and academic contexts. While versatile, avoid using it when precision is necessary. Consider alternatives like "a particular distance" or "a specific interval" for nuances in meaning. Remember to maintain accuracy and clarity in your writing by opting for precise measurements when appropriate. The phrase's frequent appearance in authoritative sources underscores its reliability and acceptance in standard English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A precise separation

Adds a level of accuracy to the separation.

A particular separation

Emphasizes the distinctness of the separation.

A measured space

Space has been calculated or assessed.

A specific interval

Highlights the measurement aspect of the space.

A known interval

The amount of space is already known.

A defined space

Focuses on the existence of a boundary around the area.

A determined gap

Suggests that the gap has been decided or measured.

A set length

Highlights the measurement of something linear.

A given range

Implies there's an upper and lower bound to the measure.

An established perimeter

Focuses on the boundary, implying a surrounding area.

FAQs

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

You can use "a certain distance" to indicate an unspecified or approximate separation between two points or objects. For instance, "Maintain "a certain distance" from the vehicle in front of you" or "The building is located "a certain distance" from the main road".

What are some alternatives to "a certain distance"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a particular distance", "a specific interval", or "a given range", depending on the context.

Is it better to use "a certain distance" or a precise measurement?

It depends on the situation. Use "a certain distance" when the exact measurement is not crucial or is unknown. Use a precise measurement when accuracy is important, such as in scientific or engineering contexts.

When is it appropriate to use "a certain distance" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "a certain distance" in writing when you want to convey an approximate separation without specifying the exact amount, or when the exact distance is not relevant to the context.