a certain suggestion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a certain suggestion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific suggestion that is not explicitly named or detailed. Example: "After considering various options, I decided to follow a certain suggestion made during the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

We should have a certain suggestion of the early 19th century.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

From our practical experience, it is essential to include the visualization of the reasons why a certain policy suggestion has been created.

EURASIP Journal on Information Security

Following certain suggestions in the literature, a hierarchical deliveries approach is being adopted in some new developments in Europe and Australia using light vehicles at the local level.

Journal of Transport Geography

In this respect, the present study attempts to provide certain suggestions whereby contamination risk to human beings can be reduced, a risk occurring mainly through direct contact with similar subjects, and, predominately with their body fluids.

Health Economics Review

Certain suggestions or notions would make the muscles of her lean spotty face quiver, her eyes go sharp and black, and her mouth work as if there were a despicable taste in it.

The New Yorker

"We are very much inclined to publish your novel, 'High Winds,' in the magazine, but would you consider certain suggestions for the revision of it, to that end, which we think might very much improve it, excellent as we think it is as it stands".

The New York Times - Books

Certain suggestions for future research are outlined.

Progress in Aerospace Sciences

(Community nurse, rural, 19) Many participants questioned the feasibility of certain suggestions.

British Journal of Cancer

For instance, some of the systems mentioned above provide supportive information about health status or make certain suggestions without including data transmission [ 31, 38, 42, 45, 57].

BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making

If the movie has a certain distinction and a suggestion of depth, then this derives almost entirely from the presence and performance of Downey as Stark.

The Guardian - Film

The celebrity guests and socialites of Lahore lifted their diamante stilettos through the scarlet pile, careful not to trip as they showed lipsticked smiles – and bare shoulders – to the flashing camera bulbs") lacked a certain subtlety, or a suggestion that the writer reads anything other than Mills & Boon.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a certain suggestion", ensure the context makes it clear which suggestion you're referring to. Avoid ambiguity by providing enough information for the reader to understand its origin or nature.

Common error

Avoid using "a certain suggestion" too frequently in a single piece of writing. Overuse can make your writing seem evasive or unclear. Vary your language by using more specific terms when possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a certain suggestion" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "certain" modifies the noun "suggestion". As Ludwig confirms, it is usable in written English. It specifies an unspecified suggestion.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

36%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a certain suggestion" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase. As Ludwig confirms, it serves the purpose of referring to a specific, yet unspecified, idea or piece of advice. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, from news and media to scientific writing. While generally appropriate, it's crucial to ensure the context provides sufficient clarity regarding the suggestion being referenced, and to avoid overuse to prevent vagueness. Related phrases like "a specific proposal" or "a particular recommendation" can offer more precision when needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific proposal

Replaces "suggestion" with "proposal" to emphasize a formal plan.

a particular recommendation

Substitutes "suggestion" with "recommendation" highlighting endorsement.

a given piece of advice

Uses "piece of advice" instead of "suggestion" for a more informal tone.

a precise idea

Emphasizes the clarity and detail of the suggestion.

a defined solution

Focuses on the suggestion as a resolution to a problem.

a known recommendation

Highlights that the suggestion is already established or recognized.

an explicit pointer

Replaces "suggestion" with "pointer", indicating a direct hint.

a clear instruction

Emphasizes the directive nature of the suggestion.

a definite approach

Focuses on the suggestion as a method or strategy.

a determined solution

Indicates a firm and resolute resolution being proposed.

FAQs

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

You can use "a certain suggestion" to refer to a specific idea or piece of advice without explicitly stating it. For example, "After considering the options, I decided to implement "a certain suggestion" made during the meeting."

What are some alternatives to "a certain suggestion"?

Alternatives include "a specific proposal", "a particular recommendation", or "a precise idea". The best choice depends on the context and the level of formality required.

Is "a certain suggestion" formal or informal?

The phrase "a certain suggestion" is generally neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal settings, a more precise term like "a specific proposal" may be preferred.

When should I avoid using "a certain suggestion"?

Avoid using "a certain suggestion" when it's essential to be explicit about the suggestion being referenced. If clarity is paramount, use a more specific term or directly state the suggestion.