a certain pattern

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a certain pattern" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something follows a regular, consistent, or predetermined pattern. For example, "We have observed a certain pattern in the way the stock market moves."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A certain pattern emerged.

The New York Times - Magazine

But a certain pattern is emerging.

The New York Times

"That means getting users to expect a certain pattern".

The Guardian - Tech

On this, let me note a certain pattern.

The New York Times

I like a certain pattern, a rhythm to life.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"A certain pattern had to be followed, an exact routine," Esther recalls.

The New Yorker

By this point a certain pattern to Miró's aggression becomes clear.

The New York Times - Arts

In the same vein, Brooks writes today, let me note a certain pattern.

The New Yorker

Each smell activates a number of these smell receptors in a certain pattern.

Independent

"The economic logic dictates a certain pattern, which is that we behave like people who are colonized.

The New York Times

No matter what their location, the lodges tend to follow a certain pattern when it comes to outings.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a certain pattern", ensure that the context clearly indicates what the pattern consists of, either through direct description or readily available information.

Common error

Avoid using "a certain pattern" when the pattern is not evident to the reader. Always provide sufficient context or explanation to clarify the specifics of the pattern.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a certain pattern" functions as a determiner phrase modifying a noun. According to Ludwig AI, this usage is grammatically correct. It indicates that there is a specific, although perhaps not explicitly defined, pattern.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

37%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a certain pattern" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression in English. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and demonstrates its versatility across different domains, including News & Media, Science, and Academia. The phrase serves to emphasize the presence of a discernible regularity or order, although without necessarily specifying its exact nature. Related phrases include "a specific arrangement" and "a particular sequence", which can be used as alternatives depending on the intended nuance. When using this phrase, ensure that the context provides sufficient cues for the reader to understand the pattern being referred to.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific arrangement

Emphasizes a particular order or organization, differing from a broader trend.

a particular sequence

Highlights an ordered series of events or items, instead of a general layout.

a defined structure

Suggests a clear and established form, moving away from potential ambiguity.

a set format

Highlights a predetermined arrangement

a predictable trend

Focuses on the capability of being foreseen, shifting from a general layout.

a regular occurrence

Stresses the repeated nature of something, unlike a shape or configuration.

a recurring motif

Points to a repeated element within a design or narrative, not just any arrangement.

an established routine

Emphasizes a set of actions performed regularly, which may or may not represent a visual design.

a recognizable configuration

Emphasizes the identifiability and overall arrangement of elements, shifting the focus to something easily perceived.

a characteristic distribution

Highlights how elements are spread or arranged, focusing on distinctive allocation methods.

FAQs

What does "a certain pattern" mean?

The phrase "a certain pattern" refers to a specific, identifiable arrangement, sequence, or order that something follows. It implies that there's a recognizable regularity or structure.

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

You can use "a certain pattern" to describe trends, habits, designs, or behaviors. For example, "The data revealed "a certain pattern" of customer preferences."

What are some alternatives to "a certain pattern"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a specific arrangement", "a particular sequence", or "a defined structure".

Is it better to use "a certain pattern" or "a particular pattern"?

Both "a certain pattern" and "a particular pattern" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice between them depends on personal preference and the specific context, as they are often interchangeable.