certain lines

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain lines" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to specific lines in a text, poem, or any written work that are noteworthy or relevant to the discussion. Example: "In the poem, certain lines resonate deeply with the reader, evoking strong emotions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He smears certain lines that seem too vulnerable.

The New Yorker

He physically hesitated before committing to certain lines.

The New York Times - Arts

"Sooner or later certain lines would seem to have a melody to them.

The Guardian - Music

At the time the actors protested, saying their confessors had forbidden them to speak certain lines.

The Guardian - Books

I can even remember to this day how some actors said certain lines.

The Guardian

Simon often notices audiences sighing in recognition at certain lines in his plays.

The New Yorker

However, YG's label censored certain lines from the song, leaving awkward gaps in the rap.

The Guardian

I'm thinking along certain lines, even though I haven't exactly articulated them yet.

The New Yorker

As a child and not an employee, I was able to cross certain lines.

The New Yorker

At times, his phrasing had an irregular flow, the rhythmic shape of certain lines indistinct.

The New Yorker

"Everyone knew their job, whether it was to hit the ruck or run certain lines".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to specific dialogue in a play or movie, use "certain lines" to pinpoint key moments or impactful statements.

Common error

Avoid using "certain lines" when you mean general guidelines. Instead, use "general principles" or "overall strategy" to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain lines" functions primarily as a determiner + noun combination, where "certain" modifies the noun "lines". It denotes specific, though perhaps not explicitly identified, rows of text, code, or other linear arrangements. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "certain lines" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that serves to highlight specific portions of text or arrangements. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is both correct and widely applicable. Its usage spans various contexts, from news and media to scientific and formal writing, with a generally neutral register. When using "certain lines", ensure clarity and specificity to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "specific statements" or "particular passages" may be appropriate depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

specific statements

Replaces "lines" with "statements" to emphasize spoken or written declarations.

particular passages

Substitutes "lines" with "passages", highlighting sections of text.

select phrases

Uses "select phrases" to denote a deliberate choice of specific wording.

designated boundaries

Replaces "lines" with "boundaries" to focus on limits or demarcations.

defined limits

Emphasizes the establishment of clear restrictions or constraints.

precise directions

Substitutes "lines" with "directions" to highlight specific guidance.

exact wording

Focuses on the specific choice of words used.

distinct aspects

Replaces "lines" with "aspects", referring to notable features or elements.

notable remarks

Highlights comments or observations of significance.

significant verses

Uses "verses" to specifically refer to lines of poetry or song.

FAQs

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

You can use "certain lines" to refer to specific parts of a text, speech, or even a plan. For example: "Certain lines in the contract were unclear and required further clarification."

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

Depending on the context, you could use "specific statements", "particular passages", or "select phrases".

Is it correct to say "a certain lines" instead of "certain lines"?

No, the correct phrasing is "certain lines" (plural) because "certain" implies more than one. Using "a certain line" would refer to a single, unspecified line.

When should I use "certain lines" versus "specific lines"?

"Certain lines" and "specific lines" are often interchangeable. However, "certain lines" might imply a degree of subjectivity or importance assigned to those lines, while "specific lines" is more objective.