a particular item

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a particular item" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific object or thing that is being distinguished from others. Example: "In the inventory list, please highlight a particular item that needs to be restocked."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Workers are taught to look for signs that a particular item is past its peak freshness.

The Washington Post

NUMBER OF PAGES: The number of pages of a particular item.

Yale University

In OskiCat, click the BANCROFT REQUEST link to request a particular item.

University of California, Berkeley

A buyer who wants a particular item enters the maximum amount he is prepared to pay.

The Economist

And if she doesn't like a particular item, we just hide it".

The New York Times

The saleswoman paused to tell a customer that Amma had, in fact, touched a particular item.

The New York Times

Sometimes it's impossible to explain why a particular item was left behind.

The New York Times

Then, with the push of a button, kiosk users can print an order ticket for a particular item.

The New York Times

Do you have a particular item of memorabilia that you hold dear that brings you luck on match days?

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The app will locate the closest retailer that carries a particular item or you can buy it online immediately.

TechCrunch

Bavor gave the example of a large DIY store where a shopper is trying to find a particular item.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a particular item", ensure the context makes it clear what qualifies the item as 'particular'. If the item's specificity isn't apparent, consider rephrasing for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a particular item" when any item would suffice. The phrase implies a reason for singling out the item, so ensure this reason is evident or important.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a particular item" functions as a noun phrase, modifying a general noun ("item") with the adjective "particular" to specify a certain instance. As Ludwig AI also confirms, it is usable in written English when referring to a specific object.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a particular item" is a grammatically correct and widely used noun phrase employed to specify a certain object or entity. As Ludwig AI confirms, its versatility extends across various contexts, from news and media to academic and scientific writing. While alternatives like ""a specific item"" and ""a certain item"" exist, the choice depends on the desired nuance. When using "a particular item", ensure the context clearly indicates the item's specificity to avoid ambiguity. With a high expert rating, this phrase remains a reliable choice for clear and precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific item

Indicates a more direct and precise selection compared to "particular", emphasizing clarity.

a certain item

Suggests that the item is known or determined, but not necessarily identified to the listener or reader.

a distinct item

Highlights the unique or distinguishable nature of the item.

a selected item

Focuses on the act of choosing the item from a group or list.

a designated item

Implies that the item has been officially or formally assigned for a specific purpose.

a chosen item

Emphasizes the act of making a choice, giving the item a sense of preference.

a precise item

Highlights accuracy and exactness regarding the item in question.

an individual item

Stresses the item's singularity or separation from others.

a discrete item

Implies the item is separate and distinct, not connected to anything else.

a singular item

Highlights the item's uniqueness or rarity.

FAQs

How to use "a particular item" in a sentence?

Use "a particular item" when you want to specify one item out of many. For example, "Do you have a preference for "a particular item" on the menu?"

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

You can use alternatives like "a specific item", "a certain item", or "a distinct item" depending on the context.

When should I use "a particular item" versus "any item"?

"A particular item" implies a specific item with certain characteristics or relevance, while "any item" suggests that there are no specific constraints or preferences.

Is "a particular item" formal or informal?

"A particular item" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. The phrase is widely understood and accepted across various registers.