a particular configuration

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a particular configuration" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific arrangement or setup of elements in various contexts, such as technology, design, or data structures. Example: "The software requires a particular configuration to function optimally."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

And Stuxnet searches for a particular configuration of industrial equipment as it spreads.

The Economist

This is a particular configuration of conference table that we had not been making, mostly because the best solution to the problem involves using metal components that we cannot fabricate in my factory.

The New York Times

The models also make predictions about the weather in the intervening winter: the particles that cool the surface warm the stratosphere, which sets up a strong Arctic jet stream in a particular configuration.

The Economist

This is a particular configuration of conference table that we weren't making at that time, mostly because the best solution to the problem involves using metal components that we cannot fabricate in my factory (which concentrates on woodworking).

The New York Times

It is designed to infect a particular configuration of a particular type of industrial-control system in other words, to disrupt the operation of a specific process or plant.

The Economist

By mimicking an ancient author equally preoccupied by the tension between preordained fate and self-determination, Cal telegraphs a very modern question: Is "Middlesex" -- or any novel, for that matter -- the story of its hero/ine or the history of a particular configuration of DNA?

The New York Times - Books

Studies of the European robin (and the robin had to wear a cute little eyepatch during this research) suggest that a particular configuration of a molecule in the robin's retina – a configuration that can only be explained by the rules of quantum theory – allows the bird to sense Earth's magnetic field and thus determine the direction in which it should fly.

The Guardian

Knowledge engineering - the extraction of knowledge from human experts - is at best extremely difficult to achieve because human Go champions appear unable to explain exactly why a particular configuration or shape of Go stones on the board is good or bad.

The Guardian - Tech

July 7, 1861 Cavendish, Vermont May 4, 1912 Baltimore, Maryland Nettie Stevens, in full Nettie Maria Stevens (born July 7 , 1861 Cavendish, Vermont, U.S. died May 4, 1912, Baltimore, Maryland), American biologist and geneticist who was one of the first scientists to find that sex is determined by a particular configuration of chromosomes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The software uses previously unknown tricks to worm its way into industrial control systems undetected, searching for a particular configuration that matches its target at which point it wreaks havoc by reprogramming the system, closing valves and shutting down pipelines.This is not fiction, but fact.

The Economist

As already said, once NIRA algorithm runs, a particular configuration is established.

EURASIP Journal on Embedded Systems

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing complex systems or processes, use "a particular configuration" to specify the exact arrangement or setup being discussed. This enhances clarity and reduces ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a particular configuration" when a simpler term like "setup" or "arrangement" would suffice. Ensure the level of specificity warrants the use of the phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a particular configuration" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb or preposition. It specifies a precise arrangement or setup, often in technical or formal contexts. Ludwig AI identifies numerous examples supporting this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

48%

News & Media

36%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a particular configuration" is a versatile phrase used to denote a specific arrangement or setup, most commonly in scientific, technical, and news-related contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used. To enhance clarity in your writing, use it when you need to emphasize a specific setup among many possibilities. While versatile, avoid overuse; simpler terms may suffice in less formal settings. By understanding its nuances, you can effectively use "a particular configuration" to improve the precision and clarity of your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific arrangement

Focuses on the arrangement being specific rather than just any configuration.

a distinct setup

Emphasizes the setup being unique and easily distinguishable.

a precise formation

Highlights the accuracy and exactness of the configuration.

a defined layout

Stresses the structured and planned nature of the arrangement.

a certain pattern

Indicates a recognizable and possibly repeating arrangement.

a fixed positioning

Implies the arrangement is stable and not easily changed.

a specialized assembly

Suggests the configuration is designed for a particular purpose.

a designated format

Highlights that a specific pre-determined format has been selected.

a tailored design

Emphasizes that the design configuration has been adapted to specific needs.

a customized structure

Highlights that a specific customized design has been adopted.

FAQs

How can I use "a particular configuration" in a sentence?

You can use "a particular configuration" to specify a precise arrangement or setup of elements. For example, "The software requires "a particular configuration" to function correctly."

What can I say instead of "a particular configuration"?

You can use alternatives like "a specific arrangement", "a distinct setup", or "a precise formation" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "a particular configuration"?

While "configuration" already implies a specific arrangement, using "particular" emphasizes that you are referring to one specific setup among many possibilities. It is not necessarily redundant if used for emphasis.

What's the difference between "a particular configuration" and "a general configuration"?

"A particular configuration" refers to a specific, well-defined setup, while "a general configuration" refers to a more broad or typical setup that may not have all the details specified.