at a certain angle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at a certain angle" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the orientation or position of an object in relation to a reference point or direction. Example: "The picture was hung at a certain angle to create a more dynamic visual effect."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

When viewed at a certain angle, such scattered light forms a circle of colored light bands.

The New York Times - Science

The fence, at a certain angle, could be mistaken for a camp for derelicts.

The New York Times

When light strikes a reflective surface at a certain angle (called the polarizing angle), the reflected light becomes completely polarized.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Some engravings are faint and visible only with the sun at a certain angle; others leap out and appear to have been carved yesterday.

The Guardian - Travel

"Some of these people are like impresarios, their coats worn over their shoulders and their hats worn at a certain angle.

The New York Times

The highway from the south darts through rolling hills, and at a certain angle, the road can become as pink as the sunset.

The New York Times - Sports

If I looked really hard at a certain angle I thought I could make out some shadowy furniture in the window of the warehouse in question.

The Guardian - Tech

In a certain light, or at a certain angle, in the way a head tilts or someone stands, you spot the resemblances clearly.

The New York Times - Arts

The special images emerge when the light is soft enough to create a striking highlight at a certain angle without being so bright as to overpower the image.

The New York Times

It happens, as Barry Lopez explains, "where light travelling in one direction at a certain angle has the same flux, or strength, as light travelling at any angle in any other direction".

The Guardian - Books

Newly arrived, Reno wanders through this "strange and wondrous and lonely" city, sensing that "what occurred did so because I was open to it, and not because fate and I met at a certain angle".

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing visual phenomena or technical setups, use "at a certain angle" to specify the exact positioning needed for observation or functionality. This enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Don't rely solely on "at a certain angle" without providing context or measurements. Instead, specify the angle in degrees or relate it to a known reference point for better precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at a certain angle" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to specify the conditions under which an action occurs or a phenomenon is observed. Ludwig provides ample examples showcasing this function across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at a certain angle" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to specify spatial context, indicating the precise orientation or viewpoint required for an action or observation. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. Its frequent presence in news, science, and encyclopedic sources shows its wide applicability. While generally neutral in register, clarity can be improved by specifying angles numerically or relating them to known reference points. Alternatives like "from a particular viewpoint", "at a specific inclination", and "in a given orientation" offer nuanced options for specific contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

from a particular viewpoint

Emphasizes the role of the observer's position in perceiving something.

at a specific inclination

Focuses on the degree of slope or tilt.

under a precise alignment

Highlights the exact positioning required for a certain outcome.

in a given orientation

Stresses the arrangement or positioning of an object.

with a particular slant

Indicates a non-vertical or horizontal positioning.

from a defined perspective

Stresses the role of a mental view or outlook.

at a calculated divergence

Implies a measured deviation from a standard direction.

in a definite alignment

Emphasizes the precise arrangement of elements.

with a deliberate cant

Suggests a conscious and purposed tilt.

under a controlled deflection

Highlights a purposeful deviation from a straight path.

FAQs

How can I use "at a certain angle" in a sentence?

You can use "at a certain angle" to describe how light interacts with objects, the positioning of items, or the perspective from which something is viewed. For example, "The light reflects best "at a certain angle"" or "Viewed "from a particular viewpoint", the building appears symmetrical.

What is an alternative to "at a certain angle"?

Alternatives include "from a particular viewpoint", "at a specific inclination", or "in a given orientation", depending on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is it more accurate to say "at a specific angle" or "at a certain angle"?

Both "at a specific angle" and "at a certain angle" are acceptable, but "at a specific angle" implies a more precise and measurable angle, while "at a certain angle" suggests a less defined or approximate angle. Choose the phrasing that best suits the level of precision required in your description.

When should I avoid using "at a certain angle"?

Avoid using "at a certain angle" when the exact angle is critical and known. In such cases, specify the angle numerically (e.g., "at 45 degrees") for clarity. Similarly, avoid it if a more descriptive phrase like "from a particular viewpoint" or "in a given orientation" would be more appropriate.