certain advantage

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain advantage" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a specific benefit or favorable position that someone or something has in a particular context. Example: "Having a strong network of contacts can provide you with a certain advantage in the job market."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

There is a certain advantage to our gender.

The New Yorker

My "first rounder" stamp armed me with a certain advantage.

The New Yorker

Hardman, as a royal correspondent, has a certain advantage here.

The Guardian - Books

But Mr. Tierney saw a certain advantage in inheriting a vacant lot.

The New York Times

"But I think there's a certain advantage to being outdoors," he added.

The New York Times

"I do think that visual artists have a certain advantage that we in the theatre don't really have," she said.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

Each dryer has certain advantages.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Oceanariums, however, have certain advantages.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"There are certain advantages.

The Guardian - Film

Yet Arkansas also has certain advantages.

The New York Times

The state legislatures do have certain advantages.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "certain advantage", specify the context in which the advantage applies to provide clarity and avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of just saying "They had a certain advantage", specify "They had a certain advantage in negotiations due to their prior experience".

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the impact of the "certain advantage". While it may be a contributing factor, it's rarely the sole determinant of success or failure. Use qualifiers to accurately represent its importance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain advantage" functions as a noun phrase, where "certain" modifies the noun "advantage". As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. The examples show it describing a specific benefit or favorable condition.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

38%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "certain advantage" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to denote a specific benefit or favorable condition. As Ludwig AI validates, its versatility makes it suitable for various contexts, from news and media to scientific discussions. When employing the phrase, ensure the context of the advantage is clear and avoid overstating its significance. Consider alternatives like ""distinct benefit"" or ""notable edge"" to add nuance to your writing. Overall, "certain advantage" is a valuable tool for expressing strengths and opportunities in diverse scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distinct benefit

Emphasizes the clear and recognizable nature of the advantage.

particular strength

Focuses on the specific area where the advantage lies as a strength.

specific asset

Highlights the advantage as a valuable resource or quality.

notable edge

Indicates a significant and easily observed advantage.

decided merit

Implies a clear and unquestionable positive quality or advantage.

clear-cut superiority

Stresses an unambiguous and easily identifiable advantage.

unequivocal benefit

Highlights a benefit that is clear and cannot be misinterpreted.

real upside

Focuses on the positive potential and practical advantage.

obvious asset

Emphasizes how easily noticeable and valuable the advantage is.

palpable upside

Focuses on how tangible and easily perceived that advantage is.

FAQs

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

You can use "certain advantage" to indicate a specific benefit or favorable position. For example: "Having a strong network provides a certain advantage in the job market."

What are some alternatives to saying "certain advantage"?

Alternatives include phrases like "distinct benefit", "particular strength", or "notable edge" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a certain advantage" or should I use "an"?

The correct article to use is "a" because "certain" begins with a consonant sound. Therefore, "a certain advantage" is grammatically correct.

What's the difference between "certain advantage" and "clear advantage"?

"Certain advantage" implies a specific but potentially not immediately obvious benefit, whereas "clear advantage" suggests that the benefit is easily recognizable and evident.