a given play

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a given play" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific play that has been mentioned or is understood in the context of the discussion. Example: "In analyzing the themes of a given play, one must consider the historical context in which it was written."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Thus, the musical contents of a given play may change with different productions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Despite much scholarly argument, it is often impossible to date a given play precisely.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They will also contact teams to share their vantage point or perspective on a given play in question.

The Washington Post

How to construe the relationship, for a given play, between the two sources and whatever Shakespeare had in mind?

The New York Times - Books

Super slo-mo replays might show what happened on a given play, but in real time, it is a roadrunner blur.

The New York Times

It featured three runners lined up in the shape of a Y, or a wishbone, the fullback directly behind the quarterback and two tailbacks split behind them, offering several options on a given play and emphasizing quickness.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

This includes a daily life of giving, play, forgiveness, gratitude.

Huffington Post

Within seven or eight days she received a letter giving play-by-play description of a baseball game.

The New Yorker

On this approach, the different types of structure that are components of a given concept play different explanatory roles.

SEP

The TFs identified as novel for a given stage play an important role in cancers [ 100].

BMC Systems Biology

The neighboring residues of a given residue play an important role in shaping the mutation pattern of the residue.

Bioinformatics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a given play" when you want to refer to a specific play that has been previously mentioned or is understood within the context of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a given play" repetitively in close proximity. Vary your language by using synonyms like "a specific play" or "the play in question" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a given play" functions as a determiner and noun, specifying a particular instance of a theatrical performance. It indicates that the play is already known or under consideration within the context, as supported by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a given play" is a grammatically sound and usable expression used to refer to a specific theatrical production. Ludwig's analysis suggests that while it's not overly common, it serves the purpose of clearly identifying a play within a particular context. The phrase is most frequently encountered in News & Media, Science and Encyclopedias sources, and its register is generally neutral. Remember that while perfectly acceptable, it is possible to improve your writing avoiding overuse, as with most phrases. Alternatives such as "a specific play" or "the play in question" can add variety to your expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a particular play

Emphasizes specificity, similar to "a given play".

a specific play

Highlights the definite nature of the play being referred to.

a certain play

Indicates a play that is known but not necessarily named.

the play in question

Refers back to a play that has already been mentioned or is under discussion.

a designated play

Suggests the play has been chosen or assigned.

a selected play

Implies a choice has been made from a larger group of plays.

the relevant play

Highlights the play's importance or applicability to the current context.

the aforementioned play

Formally references a play previously mentioned.

the subject play

Identifies the play as the topic of discussion or analysis.

the instance play

Refers to a play as an example or occurrence.

FAQs

How can I use "a given play" in a sentence?

You can use "a given play" to refer to a particular theatrical work that is being discussed or analyzed. For example: "In analyzing the symbolism within "a given play", it's crucial to consider the playwright's intentions."

What are some alternatives to "a given play"?

Alternatives include "a specific play", "a particular play", or "the play in question". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality required.

Is it more appropriate to use "a given play" or "a specific play"?

Both "a given play" and "a specific play" are acceptable. "A given play" implies that the play is already known or understood in the context, while "a specific play" simply emphasizes that you are referring to one particular play out of many.

When should I use "the play in question" instead of "a given play"?

"The play in question" is most appropriate when referring back to a play that has already been explicitly mentioned or is currently under discussion. It creates a clear link to the previous reference, whereas "a given play" can be used more generally to introduce a play within a certain context.