a particular phrase

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a particular phrase" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific expression or set of words that you want to highlight or discuss. Example: "In this context, I would like to analyze a particular phrase that captures the essence of the argument."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

But searches for a particular phrase within a text file can seem interminable.

The New York Times - Tech

A particular phrase in its melody catches his "heart in its hand".

The Guardian

I would caution that context and emotion are critical in determining whether or not a particular phrase is offensive.

The New York Times

I feel confident that the majority of my readers have a working knowledge of Hindi, so why lose the beauty of a particular phrase through clumsy translation?

The New York Times

On the afternoon of such a gig, you will find me going through my notebook, trying to work out why I wrote down a particular phrase.

The Guardian

This week it is about the detail of a particular phrase or a moment in a song when the accent is inextricably linked - and adds to - the music.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

Un loir usually translates into "a dormouse," but within this particular phrase, it typically means "a log".[4].

WikiHow

Then King started to repeat one particular phrase about having a dream.

The New York Times - Sports

Was that a conscious decision to put that particular phrase in there?

Huffington Post

But until now, there has been no easy way to search audio or video recordings for a particular spoken phrase -- a growing problem as sound and video files become commonplace.

The New York Times - Tech

Spoelstra emerged from his meetings with Kelly with a clearer idea of where his team could go and a particular buzz phrase that encapsulated his new systemic standards (via Tom Haberstroh of ESPN.com): pace and space.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a particular phrase" when you want to draw attention to a specific expression or set of words for analysis or discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "a particular phrase" in overly simplistic sentences where a more direct and concise wording would suffice. For example, instead of "I like a particular phrase in that song," try "I like a phrase in that song."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a particular phrase" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a preposition or a direct object. It identifies a specific expression that is being singled out for attention or analysis. Ludwig provides examples illustrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a particular phrase" is a common and grammatically sound way to refer to a specific expression, as confirmed by Ludwig. Its strength lies in its ability to highlight a specific set of words for closer examination or emphasis. While versatile enough for both formal and informal settings, it is most frequently encountered in News & Media and Scientific contexts. Ludwig's examples showcase its use across a variety of sources, affirming its widespread acceptance and utility. Consider the alternatives and guidance provided to refine your writing and ensure precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific phrase

Replaces "particular" with "specific", emphasizing precision.

a certain phrase

Substitutes "particular" with "certain", suggesting a known but unspecified phrase.

a given phrase

Uses "given" to imply the phrase has been previously mentioned or established.

a selected phrase

Emphasizes the act of choosing a phrase from a larger set.

a designated phrase

Suggests the phrase has been officially or formally identified.

a chosen phrase

Highlights the active selection of the phrase by someone.

a noteworthy phrase

Indicates the phrase is remarkable or significant in some way.

a relevant phrase

Emphasizes the phrase's pertinence to the current topic.

a key phrase

Highlights the phrase's importance or centrality.

a telling phrase

Suggests the phrase reveals something important or insightful.

FAQs

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

You can use "a particular phrase" to highlight a specific set of words you want to analyze or emphasize. For example: "The author used "a particular phrase" to convey a sense of urgency."

What are some alternatives to "a particular phrase"?

Alternatives include "a specific phrase", "a certain phrase", or "a given phrase", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "a particular phrase"?

While "particular" can sometimes be implied, using ""a particular phrase"" emphasizes that you are referring to a specific expression, not just any phrase.

What's the difference between "a particular phrase" and "a common phrase"?

"A particular phrase" refers to a specific, chosen expression, whereas "a common phrase" refers to an expression that is widely used and recognized.