certain cause

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain cause" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific reason or factor that is known or implied in the context. Example: "The researchers identified a certain cause for the increase in pollution levels in the area."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Suppose, for example, that rewards were used to encourage people to support a certain cause with a minimum donation.

The Economist

"If you have a certain cause, an art museum or a symphony, and you want to support it, it would be nice if you had the choice".

The New Yorker

Fervent fans have always bound their identity to a certain cause, but it's only in the modern age that it's become quasi-religious.

The Guardian - Opinion

The nervous system and the brain are a nearly certain cause of what goes on in consciousness, but in Freud's time it was scientifically impossible to reach those causes or bridge the gap between mind and matter.

The New York Times

I mean, if you have a certain cause, an art museum, or a symphony, and you want to support it, it would be nice if you had the choice to support it.

The New York Times

However, the certain cause of the observed outbreak of the GAs at the south of Qeshm Island remains unknown for the time being.

International Aquatic Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

He would champion certain causes.

The New York Times

Some companies back certain causes or organizations; others simply encourage their employees to get involved.

The New York Times

He is genuinely passionate about certain causes, and his legislative agenda suggests them.

The Economist

But he'll make an exception for certain causes and certain places, especially when the cause — the Hudson River — is the place.

The New Yorker

At the same time, they remain content in knowing that their donation will help certain causes like health care reform.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "certain cause", ensure the context clarifies what makes the cause 'certain'. Avoid ambiguity by providing enough detail about the cause's nature or effect.

Common error

Avoid using "certain cause" when the cause is not, in fact, well-defined or understood. Overusing the phrase in vague contexts can weaken your writing and mislead the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain cause" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific and often emphasized reason or factor contributing to a particular outcome, as exemplified by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "certain cause" is a noun phrase used to denote a specific and known reason or factor. According to Ludwig AI, its grammatical status is correct and its frequency is common, particularly in scientific and news-related contexts. While alternatives like "specific reason" or "particular factor" exist, the choice depends on the desired nuance. A key best practice is ensuring the context clarifies what makes the cause "certain" to avoid vagueness. Overusing the phrase when the cause is not well-defined should be avoided. Overall, using the term is suitable when aiming for clarity and precision in explaining causal relationships.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

specific reason

Replaces "certain" with "specific", emphasizing the particular nature of the cause.

particular factor

Substitutes both words to highlight a specific influencing element.

definite reason

Emphasizes the clear and unambiguous nature of the cause.

known factor

Highlights that the cause is recognized or established.

established cause

Implies the cause has been proven or confirmed.

precise explanation

Focuses on the accuracy and detail of the cause.

exact origin

Shifts the focus to the source or beginning of the cause.

root cause

Highlights the fundamental or underlying factor.

underlying reason

Focuses on the less obvious, fundamental basis.

primary driver

Emphasizes the main factor that propels or initiates an event.

FAQs

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

You can use "certain cause" to refer to a specific reason or factor. For example, "The study identified a "certain cause" for the increased mortality rate."

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

Alternatives include "specific reason", "particular factor", or "definite reason", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever incorrect to use "certain cause"?

While grammatically correct, using "certain cause" is not appropriate if the cause is actually unknown or uncertain. In such cases, use phrases like "possible cause" or "potential factor".

How does "certain cause" differ from "possible cause"?

"Certain cause" implies a known or established reason, while "possible cause" suggests a potential but unconfirmed explanation.