certain expressions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain expressions" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It refers to specific phrases or terms that have a particular meaning or connotation. Example: "In formal writing, it is important to avoid using certain expressions that may be considered offensive or inappropriate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

Wilson is overfond of certain expressions.

The Guardian - Books

Certain expressions, even if translatable, were best not translated.

The New Yorker

What's more, they may be distinguished by certain expressions.

The New York Times - Science

Even with the commonality of sign language, however, certain expressions needed to be explained.

The New York Times

Certain expressions that were considered mistakes unworthy of polite company then seem utterly normal today.

The New York Times

Semantics is concerned with what certain expressions mean (or refer to) in ordinary discourse.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

Most of the genes were highly expressed at the early developmental stage (E-L31) and maintained a certain expression levels in the following process (Fig.  5b).

BMC Plant Biology

He wore a certain expression I recognized from China—slightly stunned, a little overwhelmed, completely out of his element.

The New Yorker

One of your most fascinating findings is that if a person merely arranges his face into a certain expression, he will actually feel the corresponding emotion.

The New York Times - Health

He wore a certain expression I recognized from China — slightly stunned, a little overwhelmed, completely out of his element.

The New Yorker

Viewed from a certain angle, wearing a certain expression, it's still possible, just, to see the flicker of the Rourke who once was, but it's only a flicker.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "certain expressions", ensure they are appropriate for your target audience and the overall tone of your writing. Context matters greatly.

Common error

Avoid using "certain expressions" when you can be more specific. Vagueness can weaken your message; clarity strengthens it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain expressions" functions as a determiner + noun, specifying a subset of expressions. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. It generally precedes a clause that provides further context or limitation, defining which expressions are being referenced.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "certain expressions" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression. As Ludwig AI indicates, it effectively refers to a specific set of phrases or terms within a given context. Analysis reveals its common presence in News & Media and Science, maintaining a neutral register. When using "certain expressions", ensure its appropriateness for the intended audience and avoid vagueness by providing adequate context. Alternatives such as "specific phrases" or "particular terms" offer nuanced substitutions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

specific phrases

Emphasizes the particularity and defined nature of the phrases in question.

particular terms

Highlights the use of specific terminology within a given context.

selected idioms

Focuses on idiomatic expressions chosen for a specific purpose.

definite formulations

Refers to precise and clearly defined ways of phrasing something.

designated vocabulary

Highlights a specific set of words or terms used in a particular field or context.

prescribed language

Indicates language that is mandated or officially approved for use.

distinctive locutions

Emphasizes unique or characteristic manners of speaking or phrasing.

specialized jargon

Points to terminology specific to a particular profession or group.

peculiar wordings

Draws attention to unusual or uncommon ways of phrasing things.

fixed expressions

Refers to expressions that are established and unchanging in their form and meaning.

FAQs

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

You can use "certain expressions" to refer to specific phrases or terms, as in "Certain expressions are best avoided in formal writing".

What phrases are similar to "certain expressions"?

Similar phrases include "specific phrases", "particular terms", or "designated vocabulary" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to be specific instead of using "certain expressions"?

While "certain expressions" is acceptable, being more specific often enhances clarity and precision in your writing. Use it when referring to known or understood phrases without needing to list them.

When is it appropriate to use "certain expressions" in writing?

It's appropriate when the context makes it clear which expressions you're referring to, or when you want to avoid listing potentially sensitive or inappropriate language directly.