certain figure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain figure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific but not precisely identified numerical value or person in a context where the exact identity is not crucial. Example: "The report mentioned a certain figure that indicated a significant increase in sales over the last quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

These are tenants of the shopping-center owner and pay overage when the gross receipts exceed a certain figure.

The New Yorker

I don't mind taking on the house to a certain figure, but I'm not a bottomless pit".

Independent

Writer observes that a certain figure of speech is to be found more and more in newspapers and magazines.

The New Yorker

Obviously when you see yourself as a certain figure and something else starts coming up on the inside lane, your initial reaction is to swot it away.

The Guardian - Music

The New Yorker, February 3 , 1962P. 91 Writer observes that a certain figure of speech is to be found more and more in newspapers and magazines.

The New Yorker

As for the issue of flow from the broken pipe, Dudley says that even now BP cannot put a certain figure on it.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

True, certain figures are available.

The New York Times

Certain figures bridge the two worlds.

The New York Times - Arts

It's difficult not to repeat certain figures and patterns.

The New Yorker

Sayyid told me cautionary tales about certain figures, like the one-eyed doorman.

The New Yorker

Mr. Karzai was pressed by both sides to choose certain figures, she said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "certain figure" when you want to refer to an amount or quantity without being precise, often because the exact number is unknown or unimportant.

Common error

Avoid using "certain figure" too frequently in your writing, as it can make your statements seem imprecise or evasive. Strive for more specific language whenever possible to enhance clarity and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain figure" functions as a noun phrase where "certain" modifies the noun "figure". Ludwig examples show it denoting a specific yet unspecified numerical value or person. This functions to indicate a particular entity without providing precise details.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Academia

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "certain figure" is a grammatically correct phrase used to denote a specific, yet unspecified, amount or person. Ludwig's analysis shows it appears most frequently in News & Media, indicating its usability in general contexts. While the phrase is understandable, it's important to consider its potential vagueness, and in contexts that demand precision, alternatives such as "specific number" or "particular individual" might be more appropriate. Use "certain figure" when you need to indicate specificity without providing precise details, but always be mindful of whether greater clarity is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

certain individual

Focuses on a specific but unnamed person.

specific number

Focuses on the numerical aspect, highlighting a particular value without precise identification.

particular value

Emphasizes a specific amount or quantity that is relevant in a given context.

specific amount

Emphasizes the exactness of the sum, while still keeping it somewhat vague.

approximate amount

Highlights that the amount is not exact, but rather an estimation or close value.

unspecified quantity

Indicates that the quantity is not defined or made known.

some number

Indicates an unspecified number, often implying it's not precisely known or relevant.

designated person

Shifts the meaning to refer to a specific individual chosen or appointed for a purpose.

undisclosed sum

Suggests the amount is intentionally kept secret or not revealed.

prescribed amount

Highlights that the value is set by a rule or regulation.

FAQs

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

You can use "certain figure" when you need to refer to a specific amount or number, but you don't want to specify the exact value. For example, "The company's revenue exceeded a "certain figure" last quarter".

What's a good alternative to "certain figure" when referring to a number?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "specific number", "particular amount", or "approximate value".

Is it appropriate to use "certain figure" in formal writing?

While "certain figure" is grammatically correct, it may be perceived as vague in formal contexts. Consider using more precise language unless the exact number is intentionally omitted or unknown. In those cases, use phrases like "undisclosed sum".

What is the difference between "certain figure" and "exact figure"?

"Certain figure" implies a specific but unspecified value, while "exact figure" suggests a precise and accurate number. Use "exact figure" when you have the specific number and want to emphasize its accuracy.