a certain picture

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a certain picture" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is generally used to refer to a specific, particular picture, rather than just any random picture. Example: "I remember a certain picture that hung in our living room when I was a child. It was a beautiful landscape painted by my great-grandfather."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

And a certain picture keeps toppling, breaking the glass in its frame.

The New York Times

This photo was the first time that I didn't feel obligated to make a certain picture that an editor wanted.

The New York Times

"From what people have told us," said Ms. Fleming, those forces "don't want any pictures getting out, and they want a certain picture of what's going on inside".

The New York Times

But it made me think about the assumptions that medical professionals — and society in general — make about those who seem to fit a certain picture.

The New York Times - Health

However, photo agencies that sell the pictures have been known to be somewhat economical with the truth when asked specific questions about how a certain picture was obtained.

The Guardian

"You mention karaoke," Danny Coble, a Portland K.J., told me, "and most people around the country have a certain picture — a 50-year-old K.J. with a flowered shirt, and he does Elvis impressions".

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Participants were asked to click the left mouse button when certain picture gave them a feeling of behavioural intention to interact with.

Applied Ergonomics

… While working on it I resigned (from a certain unnamed picture magazine).

The New York Times

"Big Jake" was one of two films written by the husband and wife team of Harry J. Fink and Rita M. Fink released in 1971, the other being a certain cop picture called "Dirty Harry".

The New York Times

To hear Eubank tell it, none of "The Signal's" fictional universe would exist but for the technical expertise he accrued over eight years as a prep technician at a certain motion picture equipment company in Woodland Hills.

Los Angeles Times

And Liana Maeby looked beyond the ceremony to consider how a certain Best Picture nominee could affect the country: "Here's hoping all this insane Abraham Lincoln love is buildup to the announcement that we're finally abolishing the penny".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to a specific image within a text or presentation, use "a certain picture" to highlight its relevance and importance to the topic at hand. This helps to focus the audience's attention on the intended visual reference.

Common error

Avoid using "a certain picture" without providing sufficient context or relevance to the discussion. Ensure the image is clearly linked to the subject matter to prevent confusion or ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a certain picture" functions primarily as a determiner phrase modifying the noun "picture". It specifies that the picture being referred to is not just any picture, but a particular one known or relevant in the context. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a certain picture" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to refer to a specific image, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, it serves the purpose of highlighting a particular visual reference that holds relevance within a discussion. While alternatives like "a specific image" or "a particular photo" exist, "a certain picture" maintains a neutral tone suitable for various settings. Remember to provide sufficient context when using this phrase to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific image

Emphasizes the distinct and particular nature of the image, removing the element of possible ambiguity.

a particular photo

Replaces "picture" with "photo", maintaining the same meaning with a slightly more modern connotation.

a distinct photograph

Combines specificity and clarity by using "distinct" and "photograph"

a given image

Highlights the image as a known or pre-defined entity within a specific context.

a precise depiction

Focuses on the accuracy and detail of the image being represented.

a well-defined image

Highlights the clarity and sharpness of the image, making it easily recognizable.

a noteworthy image

Indicates that the image is significant or deserving of attention for a particular reason.

a remarkable shot

Implies that the image is impressive or outstanding due to its quality or content.

a memorable photograph

Suggests the image has a lasting impact or is easily recalled.

a striking visual

Emphasizes the visual impact and appeal of the image, indicating it is particularly noticeable.

FAQs

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

You can use "a certain picture" to refer to a specific image when you want to emphasize its particular qualities or relevance. For example, "I was reminded of our vacation when I saw "a certain picture" of the beach".

What are some alternatives to using "a certain picture"?

Alternatives include "a specific image", "a particular photo", or "a given image", depending on the context and what aspect you want to emphasize.

Is it better to say "a certain picture" or "a particular picture"?

Both "a certain picture" and "a particular picture" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. The choice often depends on personal preference or the specific nuance you want to convey. "A certain picture" may imply more familiarity or previous mention.

What does "a certain picture" imply about the image?

"A certain picture" suggests that the speaker or writer has a specific image in mind, and it is not just any random picture. It indicates that the image holds some significance or is relevant to the topic being discussed.