certain kind

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain kind" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific type or category of something without being overly specific. Example: "She has a certain kind of charm that draws people in."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Certain kind of men.

The New Yorker

A certain kind of faded elegance prevails.

The New York Times - Food

Paper enables a certain kind of thinking.

The New Yorker

The discipline attracts a certain kind.

The New Yorker

A certain kind of nomad, all.

The New York Times

That attracts a certain kind of person.

The New York Times

Or a certain kind of freedom.

The New York Times

Cancer confers a certain kind of myopia.

The New York Times

A certain kind of vocation.

Princeton University

It is a certain kind of symbol for a certain kind of New Yorker.

The New York Times

It takes a certain kind of temperament.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "certain kind" when you want to refer to a specific type or category without explicitly defining it. This allows for a degree of generality while still indicating a particular subset.

Common error

While "certain kind" is generally acceptable, excessive use can make writing sound vague. In formal contexts, consider using more precise language to clearly define the specific type or category you are referring to.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain kind" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a specific, though not explicitly defined, type or category. As Ludwig AI explains, it is a standard and usable expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Academia

23%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "certain kind" is a commonly used and grammatically sound expression that serves to specify a particular type or category without providing exhaustive detail. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in diverse writing scenarios. Its frequent appearance in news media and academic contexts underscores its versatility. Although "certain kind" is considered appropriate in most contexts, it's wise to consider more explicit language in formal writing for clarity when possible.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

specific type

Replaces "kind" with "type", emphasizing the distinctiveness of the category.

particular sort

Uses "sort" instead of "kind", suggesting a classification or variety.

definite variety

Substitutes "certain" with "definite" and "kind" with "variety", highlighting the assuredness of the type.

specific form

Replaces "kind" with "form", focusing on the shape or structure of something.

precise nature

Uses "nature" instead of "kind", emphasizing inherent characteristics.

distinct class

Substitutes "kind" with "class", referring to a specific grouping.

unique category

Emphasizes the uniqueness of the kind being referred to.

select group

Highlights a chosen or preferred type.

special breed

Implies a refined or exceptional kind.

determined strain

Uses "strain" to suggest a lineage or derivation of a certain kind.

FAQs

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

You can use "certain kind" to refer to a specific, but not necessarily explicitly defined, type of something. For example, "That attracts a "certain kind of person"."

What can I say instead of "certain kind"?

You can use alternatives like "specific type", "particular sort", or "definite variety" depending on the context.

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

It depends on the context. "Certain kind" can be useful when you want to imply a specific type without needing to explicitly define it. However, more specific language is preferable when clarity is essential.

What does "certain kind" imply about the item or person being described?

The phrase "certain kind" implies that the item or person belongs to a specific, recognizable category that may not be immediately obvious or easily defined. It suggests a nuanced distinction.