a certain ordering

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a certain ordering" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific arrangement or sequence of items or concepts that is not explicitly defined. Example: "In mathematics, a certain ordering of the numbers can lead to different outcomes in calculations."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

We focus on a subdivision of the rectangular domain into many thin subdomains along one of the axes, in combination with a certain ordering for solving the subdomain problems and a GMRES outer iteration.

Journal of Computational Physics

Aristotle defines the constitution as "a certain ordering of the inhabitants of the city-state" (III.1.1274b32-41).

SEP

Depending on the details of the case, we might want to see the expressive posture of the body as coming first, and giving rise to a certain ordering of the perceptual field, or vice versa.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Plus, the budget imposed a certain order.

The Guardian - Film

Keeping a certain order is healthier for me.

The New Yorker

"From our side there should be a certain order".

The Guardian - Sport

But the nation-state system did preserve a certain order.

The New York Times

I put colors on the palette in a certain order.

The New York Times - Books

So habit or custom produces a certain order of ideas in a person's mind.

The Guardian - Opinion

Fighting is nothing more than pushing buttons in a certain order.

The New York Times - Tech

And even animals have a certain order of their own — the wolves, the sheep.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a certain ordering" when you want to indicate that there is a specific, though perhaps not explicitly defined, arrangement or sequence.

Common error

Avoid using "a certain ordering" when a more precise term can be used. If the ordering is known or can be easily described, providing specifics will improve clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a certain ordering" functions as a determiner phrase specifying a particular, although perhaps not explicitly defined, sequence or arrangement. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a certain ordering" is a grammatically correct phrase used to indicate a specific, though not necessarily detailed, arrangement or sequence. According to Ludwig, it's suitable for various contexts, including science, news, and philosophy. While the phrase is functional, remember to consider whether a more precise term would enhance clarity in your writing. While the phrase is considered correct, it is relatively rare. The phrase implies that while something has been ordered it's not really important to describe what the correct order is.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fixed order

Focuses on the immutability and established nature of the order.

a specific sequence

Replaces 'certain' with 'specific' to emphasize the defined nature of the order.

a precise ordering

Emphasizes accuracy and exactness in the arrangement.

a particular arrangement

Substitutes 'ordering' with 'arrangement' highlighting the act of organizing.

a given arrangement

Suggests an arrangement that is already established or provided.

a defined sequence

Emphasizes the clarity and explicitness of the order.

a set arrangement

Suggests a pre-determined and fixed ordering.

a systematic sequence

Implies a methodical and structured order.

a prescribed system

Highlights the structured and regulated nature of the ordering.

a selective arrangement

Highlights the choosing and arranging from what's available.

FAQs

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

You can use "a certain ordering" to refer to a specific sequence or arrangement of elements, such as "The algorithm relies on "a certain ordering" of data to function correctly."

What are some alternatives to "a certain ordering"?

Alternatives include "a specific sequence", "a particular arrangement", or "a fixed order", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a certain ordering" instead of a more specific term?

Use "a certain ordering" when you want to indicate that there is a particular arrangement, but specifying the exact details isn't necessary or relevant for your explanation. For example, you don't need to say the precise details if the a specific sequence is a trademark secret.

Is "a certain ordering" formal or informal language?

"A certain ordering" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal writing, consider whether a more precise term would be more appropriate.