at certain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'at certain' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a specific, yet unspecified, point or item. For example, "I only attend the market at certain times of the year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Not just at certain times".

The New York Times - Sports

"We have to look at certain stuff.

Independent

They meet at certain moral limits.

The New York Times

At certain moments, the room echoes.

The New York Times

Cameras are only appropriate at certain times.

Independent

Choosing certain roles at certain times.

The Guardian - Film

"At certain points we felt very intrepid.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

At certain phrases, the heart sinks.

The Guardian

At certain points the voices thin out.

The New York Times - Arts

They are sold at certain Wegman's markets.

The New York Times - Food

People are pointing fingers at certain individuals".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at certain" to indicate that a condition or event applies only to some, but not all, instances of a category. For example, "The policy applies at certain locations" suggests not all locations are subject to the policy.

Common error

Avoid using "at certain" when the context does not provide any indication of which instances are being referred to. Provide a clear specification or example to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at certain" functions as a prepositional modifier, typically used to specify that a condition, action, or characteristic is applicable or true only in some instances but not all. As Ludwig AI suggests, this expression is deemed grammatically sound and is suitable for general use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at certain" is a grammatically sound and highly versatile expression used to denote selectivity or restriction. As Ludwig AI confirms, its widespread use across varied contexts, from scientific literature to news media, highlights its adaptability.

To effectively use "at certain", ensure that the context clarifies which specific instances you're referring to, avoiding ambiguity. Consider alternatives such as "under specific conditions" for enhanced clarity. By following these guidelines, you can confidently integrate "at certain" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under certain circumstances

Similar to 'under specific conditions' but often implies external factors influencing the situation.

under specific conditions

This alternative highlights the conditional aspect of the situation more explicitly.

in particular instances

Focuses on the occurrence of something in specific, individual cases.

on particular occasions

Highlights that an event occurs only on specific, distinct instances.

in select cases

Suggests a deliberate choice or filtering of the instances being referred to.

on some occasions

Emphasizes the infrequency and particularity of the events.

in definite situations

Highlights the definiteness and specificity of the situations.

in limited instances

Stresses the scarcity or restricted number of times something happens.

in some situations

A more general way to indicate that something is true or applicable only in a limited number of contexts.

at specific junctures

Highlights specific points in time or stages where something occurs.

FAQs

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

You can use "at certain" to specify that something applies only in some instances. For example, "Discounts are available at certain times of the year".

What's a good alternative to "at certain"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "under specific conditions", "in particular instances", or "on some occasions".

Is it correct to say "at certain" or should I use "in certain"?

The phrase "at certain" is the correct prepositional phrase to use in most contexts to mean 'in some' or 'specific'. The phrase "in certain" is less common and may sound awkward, depending on how it is used.

What is the difference between "at certain times" and "at specific times"?

"At certain times" indicates a non-specific set of times, while "at specific times" indicates a clearly defined and known set of times. For example, you might offer a promotion "at certain times" or schedule a meeting "at specific times".