certain arguments

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain arguments" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to specific arguments that are known or implied in the context of a discussion or analysis. Example: "In the debate about climate change, certain arguments are often overlooked, such as the economic impact on developing countries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Similarly with logic, certain arguments are proven inexorably valid while others are inexorably invalid.

The New York Times

IS: I was opened up to certain arguments at the Dialectics of Liberation Congress at the Roundhouse in 1967.

The Guardian - Books

Third, certain arguments, especially in the case of a mixed audience whose beliefs and aspirations are greatly varied, may be persuasive for only one part of an audience.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Sadly, on the basis of her article, I fear it is Bunting, not me, who seems to want to deny certain arguments a fair hearing.

The Guardian - Opinion

The justices' concern seemed animated by their own experience as lawyers, and they were troubled by the notion of having to represent a client with certain arguments foreclosed.

The New York Times

They know that a failure to introduce appropriate, relevant, admissible evidence at the appropriate time, and the tactical decision to make or avoid making certain arguments, can result in a victory for the defendants.

Stanford University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

I've never quite trusted the "99% certain" argument since.

The Guardian - Opinion

To place a certain argument within a richer, normatively charged tradition.

Harvard University

… Now, there was a certain argument that says, "Why don't you go to Kandahar first?" Well, the first thing: Kandahar wasn't under siege.

The New York Times

At the heart of Cohen's account is a certain argument, which he calls his 'Master Argument'.

SEP

In individual cases, designers may choose a certain argument or negotiation terminology over others.

Research and Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "certain arguments", ensure the context clearly indicates which arguments you are referring to. If necessary, provide further clarification or examples to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "certain arguments" without providing enough context, leading to confusion. Instead, specify the arguments or provide enough information for the reader to understand which arguments you are referencing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain arguments" functions as a determiner phrase followed by a noun, modifying the noun "arguments" to specify that only some, not all, arguments are being referred to. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

28%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "certain arguments" is a grammatically correct and commonly used construction to refer to specific arguments within a larger context. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions primarily to selectively highlight particular points. It is generally neutral in tone, making it suitable for various registers, from academic writing to news reporting. When employing this phrase, ensure that the context provides sufficient clarity regarding which arguments you are referencing to avoid ambiguity. Consider using alternatives like "specific arguments" or "particular arguments" for enhanced precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

specific arguments

Focuses on the specificity of the arguments being referenced.

particular arguments

Emphasizes the distinctiveness of the arguments.

some arguments

A more general way to refer to a subset of arguments.

select arguments

Highlights the act of choosing specific arguments.

definite arguments

Indicates arguments that are clearly defined or established.

identifiable arguments

Stresses that the arguments can be recognized or pointed out.

determined arguments

Implies that arguments have been conclusively established.

stipulated arguments

Arguments that have been agreed upon or specified.

designated arguments

Arguments that have been formally selected for a purpose.

prescribed arguments

Arguments that are recommended or required.

FAQs

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

You can use "certain arguments" to refer to specific arguments within a larger discussion. For instance, "Certain arguments in favor of the policy have been proven ineffective."

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

Alternatives include "specific arguments", "particular arguments", or "some arguments", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "certain arguments" or "specific arguments"?

Both "certain arguments" and "specific arguments" are correct, but "specific arguments" may provide more clarity, especially when the arguments have not been previously identified.

What does "certain arguments" imply?

"Certain arguments" implies that you are referring to a subset of arguments that are known or relevant within the current discussion, but not necessarily all arguments on the topic.