at least certain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at least certain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to indicate that some aspects or elements are definitely true or applicable, but not necessarily all. Example: "At least certain factors contribute to the overall success of the project, such as teamwork and communication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

At least, certain dogs can.

The New Yorker

So you need at least certain rules," he said.

The Guardian

There are various reasons for continued state intervention in at least certain intellectual property areas.

Columbia University

Such progress remains fragile, but at least certain demands are being established.

The New Yorker

Four states — Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey and Pennsylvania — mandate that hospitals screen at least certain patients.

The New York Times

The empirical data, taken as a whole, show that at least certain parts of the mind are modularly organized.

Cognition

Perhaps that's what it's like when somebody's in a coma, or perhaps at least certain types of comas.

Yale University

Russian banks providing obnal can't operate without the protection of at least certain elements within the security services.

The New Yorker

But Judge Kollar-Kotelly now appears to be urging Microsoft to reconsider at least certain parts of the proposal.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

That alone, believe me, gave social life a certain dignity or at least a certain style.

The New Yorker

One thing, at least, is certain.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at least certain" to acknowledge limitations or exceptions to a general statement, providing a nuanced and accurate depiction of reality.

Common error

Avoid using "at least certain" when a more precise quantifier is available. If you know the exact quantity or proportion, use it to enhance clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at least certain" functions as a qualifier or a hedge. It modifies a statement to indicate that while something is not universally true, it applies to specific instances or categories. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

37%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at least certain" is a versatile qualifier used to express a degree of certainty while acknowledging limitations. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse fields, including News, Science, and Academia. When writing, use "at least certain" to avoid overgeneralizations, providing a more nuanced and accurate depiction of reality. Alternatives like "at least some" or "certainly some" can be used depending on the desired emphasis. Remember to maintain clarity and precision in your writing by selecting the most appropriate quantifier for the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a minimum certain

Changes the emphasis to the minimum acceptable level of certainty.

at the very least certain

Adds emphasis to the minimal nature of the certainty being expressed.

certainly some

Reverses the order to emphasize certainty first, then the quantity.

assuredly some

Uses a stronger adverb to emphasize confidence in the limited certainty.

definitely a few

Replaces "certain" with "a few" to specify a small quantity with certainty.

undoubtedly some

Emphasizes the lack of doubt regarding the existence of some instances.

without question certain

Highlights the absence of doubt about the truth or existence of particular instances.

in some instances at least

Alters the structure to focus on the instances where certainty applies.

to some extent certain

Implies a partial or limited degree of certainty.

at the least some particular

Uses "particular" to emphasize specificity over generality.

FAQs

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

"At least certain" is used to qualify a statement, indicating that something is true for some cases but not necessarily all. For example, "At least certain types of exercise are beneficial for cardiovascular health".

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

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "at least some", "certainly some", or "at a minimum".

Is it redundant to say "at least certain"?

While the phrase might seem somewhat redundant, it emphasizes that while something might not be universally true, it definitely applies in some specific instances.

How does the meaning change if I use "at least some" instead of "at least certain"?

Using "at least some" places a greater emphasis on quantity, whereas "at least certain" emphasizes the existence of specific instances or types where the statement holds true. The difference is subtle, but it impacts the focus of the message.