a certain division

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a certain division" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific but unspecified division within a larger context, such as an organization or a field of study. Example: "In our research, we focused on a certain division of the population that exhibited unique behavioral traits."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Who is to say that a certain division of JPMorgan wouldn't have won that business anyway?

The New York Times

"I would say it's imperative that we do tackle it, we do set up a certain division where it's guaranteed that certain people … certain groups of people will be able to express themselves".

The Guardian

The secondary is a concern without Asante Samuel and Randall Gay, and considering that a certain division rival began employing a guy who can throw the ball 65 yards without even trying, it figures to be a focus early in the season.

The New York Times

Naturally, other things are not equal, e.g. there are practicalities and a certain division of labour in respect of the protection of the human rights of different groups.

SEP

Indeed, in a couple of cases, it was possible to note that traders and suppliers were careful not to get in each other's way and respected a certain division of labour even when there was the possibility to have direct contacts with buyers, probably in order to maintain good relations with intermediaries for future deals.

Crime Science

If you are working in a certain division of a company, talk to people who work in other divisions.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

The law is sensitive to this and makes certain division between ambiguities.

SEP

Xenocrates may have thought the notion of a line could be made to work in the same way: beyond a certain point, divisions will no longer yield lines.

SEP

"But that's the same as players and they'll have an eye on certain divisions or clubs they want to play at.

BBC

Sometimes, high turnover may not be a problem for the entire company, but instead only for certain divisions or departments.

WikiHow

It came toward the end of an employee-only conference call that had been largely devoted to meshing certain divisions of JPMorgan with its new acquisition, Washington Mutual.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a certain division", ensure the context makes it clear that you are referring to a specific, though possibly unnamed, part of a larger entity. This adds a layer of specificity without revealing precise details.

Common error

Avoid using "a certain division" when more precise language is possible. If the division can be named or described more specifically, doing so will improve clarity and reduce ambiguity. For example, if instead of "a certain division" you can say "the marketing division", it is preferable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a certain division" functions as a determiner phrase that modifies a noun. It indicates a particular, but unspecified, part of a larger entity. Ludwig AI confirms that it follows standard grammatical rules and is suitable for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a certain division" is grammatically sound and serves to denote a specific, but unspecified, component within a larger entity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is most frequently encountered in news, science, and encyclopedia contexts. While appropriate for neutral registers, writers should consider whether greater specificity would enhance clarity. Alternatives such as ""a specific division"" or ""a particular division"" may be more effective depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific division

Replaces "certain" with "specific", emphasizing definiteness.

a particular division

Uses "particular" to highlight a distinct or individual division.

a designated division

Implies a division that has been officially assigned or chosen.

a given division

Indicates a division that is already known or established.

a selected division

Suggests a division that has been chosen from a larger group.

a defined division

Highlights that the division has clear and precise boundaries.

a determined division

Emphasizes that the division has been definitively established or decided upon.

a distinct division

Focuses on the clear and recognizable separation of the division.

a separate division

Implies that the division is independent and not connected to others.

a unique division

Highlights that the division is unlike any other.

FAQs

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

You can use "a certain division" to refer to a specific, though perhaps unnamed, part of a larger group or organization. For example: "A problem was identified within "a certain division" of the company, but the details are confidential."

What's a good alternative to "a certain division"?

Alternatives include "a specific division", "a particular division", or "a designated division", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to be specific instead of saying "a certain division"?

In many cases, yes. Being more specific usually improves clarity. However, "a certain division" can be useful when the exact division is irrelevant, confidential, or unknown.

When is it appropriate to use "a certain division" instead of naming the division?

Use "a certain division" when the specific identity of the division is not essential to the context, or when there's a reason to keep the division anonymous. For example, when discussing sensitive internal matters.