a certain measure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a certain measure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an unspecified or approximate amount or degree of something. Example: "The project was successful to a certain measure, but there were still areas that needed improvement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A certain measure of anxiety has marked each of us.

The New York Times

But a certain measure of optimism isn't foolish.

The New York Times

And yet, she insisted more on modesty, restraint, and a certain measure of defiance.

The New Yorker

But Khan proves adept at combining a certain measure of slink with just enough primeval clout.

The Guardian - Music

In 1943 Glasgow published a collection of critical essays entitled A Certain Measure.

Britannica

So this killer-asteroid news arrived with a certain measure of, shall we say, impact.

The New York Times

Not love, not admiration, not even fear — but a certain measure of pity.

The New York Times - Books

By its definition πh acts on L2 Ω, dνh) for a certain measure νh.

Journal of Functional Analysis

But he said most were "amber," a classification that means convoy operators assume "a certain measure of risk".

The New York Times

However, the presence of corner stores does signify a certain measure of walkability and reduced reliance on cars.

The Guardian

But if we can move them from where they were, we can feel a certain measure of success.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a certain measure" when you want to indicate an unspecified quantity or degree, without being precise. It adds a touch of formality and can be useful when exact numbers are unknown or irrelevant.

Common error

While "a certain measure" is acceptable, avoid using it excessively, as it can make your writing seem imprecise. Consider whether a more specific term or quantity would provide greater clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a certain measure" functions as a determiner phrase indicating an unspecified quantity, degree, or extent. This is supported by Ludwig AI, which identifies the phrase as correct and usable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a certain measure" is a grammatically correct and versatile expression used to indicate an unspecified quantity or degree. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and broad applicability. It appears frequently in news, academic, and encyclopedia contexts, indicating a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, consider whether a more specific term could enhance clarity and avoid overusing vague language. Alternatives such as "some degree of" or "to some extent" can provide similar meaning with slightly different nuances. This phrase can be found across authoritative sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

some degree of

Emphasizes the extent or level of something, similar to "a certain measure" but slightly more direct.

a degree of

Indicates the extent to which something is the case, mirroring the meaning of "a certain measure".

to some extent

Focuses on the partial nature of something, akin to "a certain measure" but with a clearer implication of incompleteness.

a level of

Highlights the specific level or standard achieved, similar to "a certain measure" in conveying quantity.

a quantity of

Directly refers to an amount or number, which is more explicit than "a certain measure".

some amount of

Highlights the portion or quantity of something without being specific, similar to "a certain measure".

a modicum of

Implies a small or moderate amount, adding a nuance of understatement not necessarily present in "a certain measure".

a shade of

Suggests a slight or subtle degree, making it appropriate when the amount is minimal or barely noticeable, unlike the more neutral "a certain measure".

a touch of

Indicates a small quantity or influence, often used for intangible things like emotions or qualities, while "a certain measure" can apply to both tangible and intangible aspects.

something of

Suggests a vague or unspecified quality, similar to "a certain measure" in its lack of precision, but less formal.

FAQs

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

Use "a certain measure" to indicate an unspecified quantity, degree, or extent. For example, "The project achieved "some degree of" success, but more work is needed."

What phrases are similar to "a certain measure"?

Similar phrases include "to some extent", "a degree of", or "some amount of", all of which imply an unspecified quantity or degree.

Is it better to use "a certain measure" or a more precise term?

It depends on the context. If precision is not necessary or if the exact amount is unknown, "a certain measure" is appropriate. However, if you have specific data, using precise terms will enhance clarity.

What is the difference between "a certain measure" and "some measure"?

"A certain measure" implies an unspecified quantity or degree, while "some measure" emphasizes that action or effort was taken, even if the result is not fully defined. Both are similar, but "some measure" often carries a connotation of making an attempt.