at the certain time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at the certain time" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an unspecified time which has been previously identified or agreed upon. Example: All the staff members must submit their reports at the certain time each week.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

I have to take a bus to get to the certain place at the certain time.

Vice

I got the tip to call him at the certain time of the day and invite him for dinner.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Another time-honored tradition is yelling back at the screen at certain times during the film.

The Guardian

We were going to file the complaint at a certain time during the day.

TechCrunch

There are certain expectations for you to be at the mosque at certain times -- you get pulled in.

Huffington Post

I was able to be the best in the world at a certain time".

The New York Times - Sports

ERS peak means that, at a certain time, the activity reaches the highest level.

Cerebral Cortex

Does the watt usage jump at a certain time of the day?

WikiHow

Light-induced hydrophilicity was evaluated in atmospheric air by irradiating the samples at certain time intervals.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Fox, chairman of the drive, at a certain time.

The New Yorker

User u joins a the group at a certain time.

EPJ Data Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at the certain time", ensure the context makes it clear which specific time you are referring to. Avoid ambiguity by referencing a previous statement or agreement that establishes the time.

Common error

Avoid using "at the certain time" without establishing which time is being referred to. This can lead to confusion. Instead, use a more specific phrase or provide context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the certain time" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify when an action occurs. It indicates a specific, previously identified or agreed-upon moment. This is consistent with Ludwig's examples, which show the phrase used to pinpoint particular moments for actions or events.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

37%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at the certain time" is a grammatically sound phrase used to specify a particular, pre-established moment. While Ludwig's AI suggests it's acceptable and usable, it's crucial to provide clear context to avoid ambiguity. Its frequency is rare, appearing mostly in News & Media and Scientific contexts. For alternatives, consider "at the designated time" or "at the appointed time" to convey similar meanings with slightly different nuances. Remember to always ensure clarity and avoid vagueness when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the designated time

Replaces "certain" with "designated", implying a pre-arranged or officially specified time.

at the appointed time

Uses "appointed" to indicate a time that has been formally set or agreed upon.

at the scheduled time

Specifies that the time has been placed on a schedule or timetable.

at the fixed time

Emphasizes that the time is unchangeable or predetermined.

at the specified time

Indicates that the time has been clearly and explicitly stated.

at the given time

Suggests the time was already known or provided.

at the particular time

Highlights that one specific time is relevant.

at the set time

Implies a time that has been established or determined.

at the agreed-upon time

Highlights that the time has been mutually decided.

at the precise moment

Emphasizes the exactness and punctuality of the time.

FAQs

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

Use "at the certain time" when you want to refer back to a specific time that has already been mentioned or agreed upon. For example, "The meeting will start promptly at 2 PM. Please be ready at the certain time."

What are some alternatives to "at the certain time"?

You can use alternatives like "at the designated time", "at the appointed time", or "at the scheduled time" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it better to say "at a certain time" or "at the certain time"?

"At a certain time" generally refers to any unspecified time, while "at the certain time" refers to a specific time that has already been established or agreed upon. Choose the phrase that best fits the context.

What is the difference between "at the certain time" and "at that time"?

"At that time" refers to a specific moment previously mentioned or understood from context. "At the certain time" /s/at+the+certain+time carries the same meaning but implies a stronger sense of predetermination or agreement regarding the specific moment.