a certain theme

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a certain theme" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific theme that is not explicitly named or when the theme is known to the audience. Example: "In her latest novel, the author explores a certain theme that resonates with many readers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We get a certain theme going through this thing.

Cornell University

Each year the puzzles fit around a certain theme.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Is there a certain theme you're looking for, such as food, wildlife or culture?

The Times

At public discussions of TV I've taken part in recently, a certain theme has emerged.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Looking back at the reviews I've written from Shoreditch over the past 15 years, a certain theme emerges.

Independent

And when I write essays, I want to relate something on a certain subject or a certain theme.

The New York Times - Books

You can browse works of particular colors, view collections curated by particular people and choose works that correspond to a certain theme, like "understated" or "ethereal".

The New York Times

Every year, MIT's undergraduate robotics course (2.007) holds a final competition in which student-built robots compete to perform tasks around a certain theme.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The computer-literate can call up a growing volume of geographic data and, choosing a certain theme and scale, create their own maps.

The New York Times - Books

Often I think I have written about a certain theme, but by reading the letters or reviews I realise that everybody sees the book differently.

The Guardian - Books

"There is this buzz, this energy here," said Mr. Carnabuci, whose gallery Casola, has a special show around a certain theme each month.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a certain theme", ensure the context makes it clear that the theme is identifiable, even if not explicitly stated.

Common error

Avoid using "a certain theme" when the theme is entirely unclear to the audience. Provide some context or hint at what the theme might be to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a certain theme" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb or the subject of a clause. Ludwig AI shows its broad applicability across various domains, underlining its function in introducing a subject matter without immediate specific identification.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a certain theme" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a topic or subject without being overly specific. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and frequently used across various domains, including news, academia, and science. While it's essential for clarity, this phrase allows writers to allude to a subject matter that is either already understood in context or will be further elaborated. Alternatives like "a specific theme" or "a particular theme" can provide more emphasis, but "a certain theme" remains a reliable choice for a neutral and generally understood reference.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific theme

Replaces "certain" with "specific", emphasizing particularity.

a particular theme

Substitutes "certain" with "particular", highlighting individuality.

a defined theme

Replaces "certain" with "defined", suggesting a clear and established subject.

a designated theme

Substitutes "certain" with "designated", implying a pre-selected topic.

a selected theme

Replaces "certain" with "selected", indicating a deliberate choice.

a given theme

Substitutes "certain" with "given", implying a theme that is already established or known.

a common thread

Uses a metaphor to describe a recurring element or idea.

a recurring motif

Employs "motif" to refer to a repeated pattern or idea within a work.

a central idea

Focuses on the main concept or message being conveyed.

a thematic focus

Highlights the emphasis on a specific thematic element.

FAQs

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

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

How to use "a certain theme" in a sentence?

You can use "a certain theme" to refer to a subject or topic without explicitly naming it. For example: "The conference will explore "a certain theme" related to sustainable development."

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

"A certain theme" implies the theme is known or understood within the context, while "a specific theme" emphasizes that the theme is well-defined and clear.

Is it appropriate to use "a certain theme" in formal writing?

Yes, "a certain theme" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when you want to refer to a theme without explicitly stating it, or when the theme is understood by the audience. However, clarity is key; ensure the reader can infer the "a certain theme" from the surrounding text.