a certain fetish

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a certain fetish" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific but unspecified fetish, often in discussions about preferences or interests. Example: "He mentioned that he has a certain fetish for vintage clothing, which surprised his friends."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

A lot of them feel like they're freaks because they have a certain fetish, but I say, 'Look, you're not there are millions of people that are into this, it's just they don't talk about it at the bus stop.'".

Vice

A lot of them feel like they're freaks because they have a certain fetish, but I say, 'Look, you're not – there are millions of people that are into this, it's just they don't talk about it at the bus stop.'".

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Many aces say they think of nothing when they masturbate, while a handful indicated that certain fetishes, like BDSM, come to mind.

Huffington Post

The appeal of the imprinting theory is that it can help to explain not just why we seem to be attracted to people who bear resemblance to our parents, but also why certain fetishes develop.

Vice

Some people actually request that, but that's specific to a certain kind of fetish.

Vice

Maybe I have wrongly assumed your name is Scott Heinrich and that in fact your email address speaks of your fetish for a certain movement or something.

The Guardian - Sport

Thursday nights at New York City's most iconic leather bar, The Eagle, is usually "gear" fetish night, placing a certain aesthetic style at the forefront.

Vice

The latter offered me an interesting opportunity to ignore the fetish of color, as well as a certain freedom accompanied by some very careful writing.

The New Yorker

Saiga soon discovers that Kagura's body fluids, like her saliva, in combination with a certain "virus", can give people bizarre abilities relating to their secret desires, fetishes, and obsessions.

Wikipedia

But is a menage a trois a fetish?

The Guardian - Music

But whereas this was once the province of a certain tax bracket and its implicit fixations — Savile Row suits, golf clubs, cigars and single-malt Scotch — it now includes youthful fetishes with the coolest surfboards, sneakers and skateboards.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a certain fetish", be mindful of the context and audience, as the term can be considered sensitive or taboo. Consider using more neutral language if appropriate.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a certain fetish" always implies a strong, potentially harmful obsession. It can simply refer to a specific preference or interest that is somewhat unusual.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a certain fetish" functions as a noun phrase, where "certain" modifies the noun "fetish". It specifies that there is a particular, though perhaps not explicitly named, focus of interest or desire. As Ludwig AI states, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a certain fetish" is a grammatically sound and usable expression in English, as confirmed by Ludwig. It functions as a noun phrase referring to a specific but unnamed interest or desire, often of an unconventional nature. While the term "fetish" can carry informal or even taboo connotations, the modifier "a certain" allows for a more detached tone. Use this phrase with awareness of context and audience sensitivity, keeping in mind that alternatives such as "a particular fascination" or "a specific predilection" may be more appropriate in formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a strange obsession

Emphasizes the intensity and potentially compulsive nature.

a particular fascination

Replaces "fetish" with a less intense term, softening the connotation.

a peculiar attraction

Highlights the unusual or unique nature of the interest.

a specific predilection

Uses a more formal and clinical term than "fetish".

a marked inclination

Indicates a clear tendency or preference.

a distinct penchant

Employs a sophisticated term indicating a strong liking.

a unique desire

Focuses on the element of wanting or longing.

a notable interest

Substitutes "fetish" with a general term for interest, diluting the intensity.

a personal quirk

Downplays the intensity, suggesting it's just an odd personal trait.

a strong liking

Simplifies the phrase to a basic preference.

FAQs

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

You can use "a certain fetish" to describe a specific but unnamed interest or preference someone has. For example, "He has a certain fetish for vintage cars".

What's a less explicit way to say "a certain fetish"?

Consider using alternatives like "a particular fascination", "a specific predilection", or "a notable interest" to soften the connotation.

Is it appropriate to use the phrase "a certain fetish" in formal writing?

The appropriateness depends on the context. In formal or professional settings, it's often better to use more neutral terms like "preference" or "interest" unless the specific term is necessary and relevant.

What are some examples of common fetishes that people might have?

Fetishes can vary widely and may involve objects, materials, body parts, or activities. However, it is important to remember that discussing specific examples may be inappropriate depending on the setting.