certain changes

USAGE SUMMARY

"certain changes" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to specific changes or alterations. Example sentence: We have made certain changes to our product design to ensure user satisfaction.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But I've made certain changes.

The Washington Post

Papp wanted to make certain changes in the play.

The New Yorker

I add in melodic lines, make certain changes.

The New York Times

Were there certain changes you wanted to make?

The New York Times

We were told they accepted the changes we made and they made certain changes.

The New York Times

"There are moments in time when the society is ready for certain changes.

The New York Times

But certain changes in the way border officials treat arrivals are perceptible, watchdog groups say.

The Guardian

That, analysts and American diplomats said, has tied Mr. Fernandez's hands in making certain changes.

The New York Times

The restructuring team should also consider making certain changes contingent on early successes.

Harvard Business Review

Concepts offer a basis for deciding if certain changes will have significant effects.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In Hymns and Psalms (1983), certain changes were made to eliminate overtones that Methodists considered sexist.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "certain changes", ensure the context provides some indication or implication of what these changes might be, to avoid ambiguity. For example, "Due to the new regulations, certain changes will be implemented" suggests changes related to the regulations.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "certain changes" without providing any context or examples. While it can be useful for generalizations, overuse can make your writing seem evasive or lacking in detail. If possible, follow up with specific examples or a more detailed explanation of the changes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain changes" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the object of a verb or preposition. It indicates that modifications or alterations have been made, as illustrated in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

13%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "certain changes" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase, indicating that specific modifications have been made or are required. As Ludwig AI points out, it's correct and usable in written English. Its usage spans across various contexts, from news and media to encyclopedias and scientific literature. While it's a versatile phrase, ensure you provide enough context to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "specific alterations" or "particular modifications" for more precision. Overall, it's a reliable way to convey the implementation of particular, though perhaps unspecified, alterations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

specific alterations

This alternative highlights the precise and defined nature of the changes.

particular modifications

This phrase emphasizes the distinct and individual adjustments made.

definite adjustments

This option underscores the clear and unambiguous nature of the adjustments.

distinct variations

This phrase points out the notable differences or deviations introduced.

precise amendments

This term focuses on the accuracy and exactness of the changes made.

specified revisions

This option highlights the detailed and identified nature of the revisions.

targeted modifications

This emphasizes that the changes are directed towards a specific goal or area.

exact alterations

This underscores the precision and accuracy of the changes.

designated changes

This implies that the changes have been officially selected or appointed.

defined adjustments

This highlights that the adjustments are clearly outlined and understood.

FAQs

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

Use "certain changes" to indicate that some specific modifications have been made or are necessary. For instance, "The company implemented "certain changes" to improve efficiency".

What are some alternatives to "certain changes"?

Alternatives include "specific alterations", "particular modifications", or "definite adjustments", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "certain changes" or list the changes explicitly?

It depends on the context. "Certain changes" is useful when you don't need to specify every detail or when the details are implied. If specificity is required, listing the changes is preferable.

What's the difference between "certain changes" and "some changes"?

"Certain changes" implies that the changes are specific and perhaps predetermined, while "some changes" is more general and suggests that unspecified modifications have been made.