certain concepts

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain concepts" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to specific ideas or theories that are not explicitly named but are understood in context. Example: "In this paper, we will explore certain concepts related to cognitive development and their implications for education."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Instead of thinking he would take certain concepts under advisement.

The New Yorker

China has heard of democracy and people know about certain concepts they wouldn't have previously.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Kids can't understand certain concepts when they are too young, but later they just "get it".

The New York Times

But to practice problem-solving, a student must first master certain concepts.

The New York Times - Science

"The fact that they've figured out certain concepts and language for doing that, we think is really important and positive".

The New York Times

"If you start to use certain concepts and words, it begins to infuriate some people," she said.

The New York Times

Certain concepts not addressed here that are nonetheless fundamental to banking are treated in the articles accounting and money.

Encyclopedia Britannica

When certain concepts caught his eye, he conducted new searches to see whether that concept existed in the full texts of other articles related to migraines.

The New York Times - Tech

The Khan Academy's online lectures are sometimes criticized for duplicating old-fashioned rote learning on a computer screen, and some critics question the way he teaches certain concepts.

The New York Times

Why? Gabriel H Sahlgren, the author of a book on the dubiousness of the Finnish miracle claims it is "because its centralised curriculum has ignored certain concepts that are not tested in Pisa".

The Guardian

The main use in the book is to organize certain concepts into an elegant subject.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "certain concepts", ensure the context makes it clear which concepts you are referring to, even if they are not explicitly named. This avoids ambiguity and ensures your audience understands your meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "certain concepts" as a placeholder when you could be more specific. If possible, replace it with a more descriptive term or phrase to improve clarity and precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain concepts" functions as a noun phrase modified by the adjective "certain". It serves to reference specific, though unnamed, ideas or principles within a given context. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is commonly used across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "certain concepts" is a versatile expression used to refer to specific ideas or principles without explicitly naming them. As Ludwig confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly employed across various domains, including science, news, and encyclopedic content. While the phrase is generally acceptable, it's crucial to ensure the context provides sufficient clarity to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "specific ideas" or "particular notions" may offer greater precision in certain situations. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, writers can effectively incorporate "certain concepts" into their writing while maintaining clarity and conciseness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

specific ideas

Emphasizes the particularity of the ideas being referred to.

particular notions

Highlights the uniqueness or distinctiveness of the concepts.

defined principles

Focuses on the well-established and clearly outlined nature of the concepts.

established theories

Refers to concepts that have been widely accepted and validated within a specific field.

recognized ideas

Implies that the concepts are generally acknowledged or understood.

definite concepts

Highlights the precision and clarity of the concepts.

select notions

Emphasizes a deliberate choice or selection of concepts.

precise ideas

Refers to concepts that are characterized by their accuracy and detail.

distinct concepts

Underlines the individuality and separateness of the concepts.

given concepts

Specifies concepts that are already known or provided.

FAQs

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

You can use "certain concepts" to refer to specific ideas or principles without explicitly naming them. For instance, "Students must master "certain concepts" before advancing to the next level."

What are some alternatives to "certain concepts"?

Alternatives include "specific ideas", "particular notions", or "defined principles", depending on the context.

Is it okay to use "certain concepts" in academic writing?

Yes, "certain concepts" is acceptable in academic writing, especially when referring to ideas that are understood within the context of the discussion. However, strive for specificity where possible.

What does "certain concepts" mean?

"Certain concepts" refers to particular ideas, theories, or principles that are being considered or discussed, without explicitly stating which ones. It implies a level of specificity that is understood within a given context.