a certain question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a certain question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific question that is not explicitly stated or when the speaker wants to imply a particular question without naming it. Example: "During the meeting, we discussed a certain question that had been bothering the team for weeks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

Which of course raises a certain question.

The Guardian

For all Mr. Wagoner's accomplishments, he could not escape a certain question.

The New York Times - Arts

"It takes twists and turns you might not expect if a certain question is asked".

The New York Times - Food

IN a crowded place like Manhattan, there are moments when a certain question flits across people's minds.

The New York Times

There is, however, a certain question that tends to arise among juries whenever prizes are being contemplated.

The Guardian - Books

In the living room, Mahdavi told me that every one of her projects is about answering a certain question.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Maybe wikiHow has an article about your certain question.

WikiHow

Still, when a certain recurring question crops up — is figure skating a sport or an art — I'm reminded of the jokes, and the answer is clear: it's a sport with delusions of grandeur.

The New York Times - Arts

Hard-done-by students email us with the minute detail about why a certain physics question, for example, is incorrect.

BBC

These problems include missing data, phylogenetic resolution, and taxon and gene sampling, all of which contribute to the underlying data quality and consequently the resolution of a certain phylogenetic question (Philippe et al. 2005, 2011; Baurain et al. 2007).

Genome Biology and Evolution

Yet blasphemy becomes a right, even an obligation, when certain questions of principle arise.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a certain question" when you want to refer to a question without explicitly stating it, often to create suspense or imply shared understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "a certain question" excessively in formal writing where clarity and precision are paramount. Instead, directly state the question or use more specific terms like "the key question" or "the central issue".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a certain question" functions as a determiner phrase modifying the noun "question". It introduces a question that is either known but unspecified or being deliberately left vague. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a certain question" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression in the English language. Ludwig AI highlights its versatility and acceptability across various domains, as evidenced by its presence in news articles, scientific publications, and even wikis. While its usage is generally neutral, careful consideration should be given to the context, particularly in formal writing, where more explicit language might be preferred. When aiming to evoke curiosity or hint at an unspoken issue, "a certain question" serves as a valuable tool in a writer's arsenal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific query

Replaces "question" with "query", suggesting a more formal or precise inquiry.

a particular inquiry

Uses "inquiry" instead of "question", implying a more formal or investigative approach.

a given problem

Shifts the focus from a question to a problem, framing it as something to be solved.

a precise point

Replaces "question" with "point", indicating a specific issue or concern.

a known issue

Frames the question as an established or recognized problem.

a sensitive topic

Emphasizes the delicate or controversial nature of the question.

an underlying concern

Highlights the deeper, often unspoken, worry behind the question.

a challenging issue

Highlights the difficult nature of question

a hidden agenda

Indicates a secret goal or motive behind the question.

a potential misunderstanding

Focuses on the possibility of confusion or misinterpretation.

FAQs

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

You can use "a certain question" to refer to a specific question without explicitly stating it. For example, "During the interview, "a certain question" kept recurring in my mind."

What's the difference between "a certain question" and "a specific question"?

"A certain question" implies that the question is known but not explicitly stated, while "a specific question" directly indicates a particular question that is being referred to.

What can I say instead of "a certain question"?

You can use alternatives like "a particular question", "a specific question", or "a given question" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a certain question" in academic writing?

While grammatically correct, using "a certain question" in academic writing may lack the precision required. Consider rephrasing with a more direct and specific reference to the question being addressed.