certain date

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain date" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a specific but unspecified date in a context where the exact date is not crucial. Example: "Please submit your report by a certain date that we will confirm later."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We wanted to have unconditional surrender by a certain date.

University of California, Berkeley

The exception is if you have been promised or "guaranteed" the delivery by a certain date.

The Guardian - Money

These give them the right to buy shares at a preset price by a certain date.

The New York Times

The folder contained a list of people executed in one prison on a certain date.

The New York Times

"They don't have to wait for a certain date to see a play".

The New York Times

Like loaves of bread, magazines are best if consumed before a certain date.

The New York Times - Books

We said that if it got past a certain date he would certainly remain with us.

The Guardian - Sport

Chips can be designed to break down at a certain date.

The Economist

She bought the tickets and asked everyone to pay her by a certain date.

The New York Times

But in this case, the problem won't go away after a certain date.

The New York Times - Tech

If you want something delivered by a certain date, always phone.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "certain date" with clarifying information like "by a certain date" or "on a certain date" to enhance clarity and context.

Common error

Avoid using "certain date" without any follow-up clarification if the date is indeed important. If possible, provide an estimated timeframe or a method for the recipient to determine the actual date.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain date" functions as a noun phrase modifier. It specifies that a date is being referred to, but without providing the exact details of that date. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

23%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Wiki

13%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "certain date" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to refer to a specific but unspecified point in time. As shown by the numerous examples provided by Ludwig, it's suitable for various contexts, including news, academic writing, and general communication. The phrase functions as a noun phrase modifier and serves the purpose of indicating a specific point in time without needing to specify it exactly. While highly versatile, being mindful to use alternatives can add nuance to your writing. As Ludwig AI shows, this phrase is perfectly fine and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Specific date

Emphasizes the exactness and particularity of the date.

Particular date

Highlights a specific and noteworthy date.

Designated date

Implies the date has been officially selected or appointed.

Predetermined date

Suggests the date was decided in advance.

Agreed-upon date

Emphasizes that the date was mutually decided.

Scheduled date

Indicates the date is part of a plan or timetable.

Fixed date

Highlights the immutability or unchangeability of the date.

Appointed time

Uses 'time' instead of 'date', broadening the context slightly.

Defined deadline

Focuses on the date as a final point for completion.

Given timeframe

Refers to a period including the specific date.

FAQs

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

You can use "certain date" to refer to a specific point in time without specifying it exactly, such as "The project must be completed by a "certain date" in the future".

What are some alternatives to "certain date"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "specific date", "particular date", or "designated date".

Is it better to use "specific date" or "certain date"?

The choice depends on the context. "Certain date" implies that the exact date is either unknown or unimportant to specify at the moment. "Specific date" suggests that the exact date is known and important.

What does it mean when someone says "by a certain date"?

It means that something needs to be done or completed before or on that "certain date", which will be specified later or is already known but not stated.