a certain narrative of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a certain narrative of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific story or account that is being discussed or analyzed, often in a context of interpretation or perspective. Example: "In her analysis, she explores a certain narrative of history that challenges traditional viewpoints."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Had I, in the heat of storytelling, become too invested in a certain narrative of my childhood?

The New York Times

"If choice doesn't have any meaning, life doesn't have any meaning," says Robert McKee, a writing instructor who has no dogs in the hunt — he's an atheist — but sees how hell is needed to support a certain narrative of existence.

The New York Times

"[It] has had an enormous, if subtle, impact on how we think of poetry and language today," he said, calling it "a reminder that travel, exile, cosmopolitan irony, as well as a certain narrative of the self can be addressed just as well – if not better – through the means poetry has at hand (economy, form, the image, and a kind of grace) as they can by the novel or the essay".

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

The methodological decisions taken along the process were framed in a project, in a certain narrative and critical vision of history and of Argentine development, open to the perception of other co-existing projects at stake.

European Journal of Futures Research

In the course of our gun-violence epidemic, a certain narrative grammar has emerged, and the accounts of eyewitnesses are an enraging staple of morning shows.

The New Yorker

All of this generates a certain narrative intrigue and a bittersweet mood.

The New York Times - Arts

This organic approach of development gives a certain narrative control and power to the affecting device she chooses, Dalt positions herself as a curator of influences, the dam for many creative streams.

Vice

This sense of the fragmented personality, however reflective of the metamorphosing tendencies of modern women, makes for a certain narrative frustration.

The New York Times

Taking Ruby's as an early vector of Stateside avocado toast, a certain narrative emerges.

The New Yorker

That Molloy was diagnosed with, and died from, cancer of the liver, necessarily dominates the second half of the collection, and provides a certain narrative momentum.

The Guardian - Books

It's an act of remembering as well as connecting with a certain narrative in his life.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a certain narrative of", ensure you clearly define which narrative you are referring to, providing context for the reader to understand its relevance.

Common error

Avoid using "a certain narrative of" without providing enough context, as this can lead to confusion and weaken your argument. Always specify the narrative being discussed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a certain narrative of" functions as a determiner phrase followed by a noun phrase. It introduces a particular perspective or account of a story or events. As Ludwig highlights, it's a grammatically correct way to refer to a specific narrative.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a certain narrative of" is a grammatically sound phrase used to denote a specific perspective or account. While not overly common, as noted by Ludwig, it appears in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian. Its primary function is to specify a particular narrative for analysis or comparison, as noted by Ludwig AI. To ensure clarity, always provide enough context when using this phrase to avoid ambiguity and to strengthen your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a particular account of

Replaces "narrative" with "account", emphasizing a specific recounting of events.

a specific story about

Uses "story" instead of "narrative", making it more informal and direct.

a defined version of

Emphasizes that the narrative has clear boundaries and is not ambiguous.

a distinct portrayal of

Highlights the act of representing or depicting something in a particular way.

a unique interpretation of

Focuses on the subjective understanding or explanation of events.

a select rendering of

Suggests the narrative is carefully crafted and presented in a specific manner.

a chosen depiction of

Implies a deliberate selection of certain details to shape the narrative.

a precise history of

Highlights the accuracy and factual nature of the narrative.

a fixed chronicle of

Suggests an unchangeable and officially recorded sequence of events.

a set telling of

Implies a formal and structured presentation of the story.

FAQs

How can I use "a certain narrative of" in a sentence?

You can use "a certain narrative of" to refer to a particular account or story, especially when discussing its interpretation or impact. For instance, "The historian challenged "a certain narrative of" the war, presenting new evidence that changed the accepted understanding".

What are some alternatives to "a certain narrative of"?

Alternatives include "a particular account of", "a specific story about", or "a defined version of", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is there a difference between "a certain narrative of" and "a general narrative of"?

"A certain narrative of" refers to a specific and identified story, whereas "a general narrative of" refers to a broader, less defined account. The former is more precise, while the latter is more encompassing.

When is it appropriate to use "a certain narrative of" in academic writing?

It is appropriate in academic writing when you are analyzing a specific account or interpretation of events, especially when critiquing or comparing it to other perspectives. For example, "The paper examines "a certain narrative of" economic history and its impact on policy decisions".