certain contexts

USAGE SUMMARY

"certain contexts" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you are referring to a specific set of circumstances or conditions related to a particular discussion or situation. For example, "A certain degree of caution is needed in certain contexts before making a final decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Jurisdictional immunity exists in certain contexts.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Certain words, in certain contexts, are best left unspoken.

The New York Times

Even the N-word is perfectly acceptable when used by certain group members in certain contexts".

The Guardian - Tech

It is, and yet in certain contexts importantly is not, the same.

The Guardian - Arts

In certain contexts — horror-genre video games, for example — generating that queasy feeling can be useful.

The New Yorker

Alan Sepinwall: But in certain contexts, like the warehouse party episode, she fits in perfectly.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Henrik Stenson's celebration to mark his Open Championship win may be deemed lavish in certain contexts.

The Guardian - Sport

Many borders also exist only in certain contexts – blocking the passage of people but not things.

The Guardian - Opinion

That's quite a high cut-off in certain countries in certain contexts.

The Economist

This somewhat highfalutin word can seem especially incongruous in certain contexts.

The New York Times

What about your notion that musicians are almost programmed to make music for certain contexts and formats?

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "certain contexts", be specific about what those contexts are to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "This is acceptable in certain contexts", specify "This is acceptable in academic contexts when discussing historical events."

Common error

Avoid using "certain contexts" as a vague qualifier. Instead of saying "This might work in certain contexts", provide concrete examples of when it would be appropriate. Otherwise, it weakens your argument and leaves the reader guessing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain contexts" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or adjective by specifying the conditions under which an action or state is applicable. It provides essential qualifications, limiting the scope of a statement. Ludwig confirms the validity and widespread use of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

42%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "certain contexts" is a versatile phrase used to qualify statements and specify conditions where they hold true. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability across diverse fields, especially news, science, and encyclopedias. While it's crucial to be specific about what those contexts are to avoid vagueness, this phrase enhances precision in writing. Alternatives like "specific circumstances" and "particular situations" can provide similar nuances. By avoiding overgeneralization and clearly defining the intended contexts, writers can leverage "certain contexts" to add depth and accuracy to their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

specific circumstances

Emphasizes the particular details that define a situation.

particular situations

Highlights the uniqueness of each scenario.

given conditions

Focuses on the established or pre-existing factors.

specific instances

Refers to individual occurrences or examples.

under certain conditions

Emphasizes that the outcome depends on specific requirements being met.

in some cases

Suggests that the statement applies to a limited number of scenarios.

depending on the situation

Highlights the variability of the outcome based on the circumstances.

in specific scenarios

Focuses on hypothetical or modeled situations.

in appropriate settings

Implies that the context must be suitable for something to occur.

subject to circumstances

Indicates that external factors play a significant role.

FAQs

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

You can use "certain contexts" to indicate that a statement or action is only applicable or appropriate under specific conditions. For example, "Lying is wrong, but it might be justifiable in "certain contexts", such as to protect someone's life."

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

Alternatives include "specific circumstances", "particular situations", or "given conditions", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to be specific instead of saying "certain contexts"?

Yes, being specific is generally better. While "certain contexts" is grammatically correct, it can be vague. Providing details about the "specific circumstances" makes your writing clearer and more persuasive.

What does "certain contexts" actually mean?

"Certain contexts" refers to specific situations or conditions. The meaning is that something is only true, valid, or appropriate in particular scenarios, not universally.