a certain face

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a certain face" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific face that is known or recognized but not explicitly named. Example: "In the crowd, I spotted a certain face that reminded me of my childhood friend."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

He'd make a certain face.

The New Yorker

Like everyone, I put on a certain face, and I worry that what I see in the mirror is a construct.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He may never have lost his hair – not until he had radiotherapy – but there's a resemblance, and I know when I pull a certain face if I look in the mirror I'll see my dad looking back at me.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"It is purely speculative — and presumptuous — to suggest that a juror will see a certain face in the audience and jump to the conclusion that the spectator has 'violent radical Islamic leanings' that will result in a direct threat to the juror's personal safety," the lawyers wrote.

The New York Times

It suits a certain face.

Huffington Post

Perhaps you frequently tag photos on Facebook -- the platform will come to recognize which of your friends a certain face belongs to.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

She perfectly hit a certain look: gently tanned face as smooth and puffy as the moon in a children's book, a delicate shine to the skin.

The New York Times

But then Alfa swings back, moves towards Beta, and splits the food, with a certain expression on his face that indicates his acknowledgement of this sort of mistake.

Biology and Philosophy

They typically have a chiseled, certain face, doe-like steady eyes, and brown or dark hair.

WikiHow

In PK tests, the subject attempts by thinking or willing to influence thrown dice, causing a certain die face to turn up or causing the die to land in a certain area.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Are you Maria?" shrieked Lena White, 81, of Eugene, Ore., daughter of a former mine superintendent, laying eyes for the first time in 60 years on a certain familiar face.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a certain face" when you want to refer to someone without explicitly naming them, either because their identity is known within the context or because you wish to maintain a level of generality or anonymity.

Common error

While "a certain face" is acceptable in many situations, overuse in formal writing can sound vague. Consider using a more precise description or name when clarity is essential.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a certain face" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb or the subject of a clause. It denotes a specific, though unnamed, individual recognizable by their facial features. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and readily usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

33%

Science

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a certain face" is a grammatically correct and usable noun phrase that refers to a specific but unnamed individual. Ludwig confirms its validity and provides examples across various sources. While it's most common in News & Media contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse writing scenarios. When using this phrase, consider its purpose—often to avoid naming someone directly—and choose it over alternatives like "a familiar face" or "a particular face" based on the specific context. Avoid overuse in formal writing where more precise language is preferred.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a particular face

Emphasizes the distinctiveness or uniqueness of the face being referred to.

a familiar face

Highlights the recognizability of the face, suggesting it is known to the speaker or audience.

a specific face

Focuses on the definiteness and precision of the face in question.

a recognizable face

Stresses that the face can be easily identified or remembered.

a known face

Implies that the face belongs to someone who is known or has been introduced.

a distinct face

Indicates that the face has unique characteristics that make it stand out.

a notable face

Suggests the face is worthy of attention or has some significance.

that one face

Uses a demonstrative pronoun to point to a face already under consideration or in the context.

a memorable face

Emphasizes that the face is easily remembered due to its characteristics.

a face of someone

Shifts the focus to the person behind the face rather than its features.

FAQs

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

You can use "a certain face" when referring to a person without explicitly identifying them. For example, "I recognized "a certain face" in the crowd but couldn't recall the name."

What are some alternatives to "a certain face"?

Alternatives include "a particular face", "a familiar face", or "a specific face", depending on the context.

Is it better to use "a certain face" or name the person directly?

It depends on the context. If the person is known or easily identifiable, naming them directly is clearer. Use "a certain face" when the identity is less important or you want to create a sense of mystery.

When is it appropriate to use "a certain face"?

It's appropriate when you don't need to specify the person's name or when the context makes it clear who you're referring to. It's also useful when you want to maintain a degree of anonymity.