certain locations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain locations" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to specific places or areas without naming them explicitly. Example: "The event will be held in certain locations across the city to accommodate more attendees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Prostitutes walk certain locations at night.

The Guardian - Opinion

And friendships could develop around certain locations.

The Guardian

There are certain locations where impurities tend to segregate more.

Acta Materialia

Houellebecq says he was inspired by certain locations, particularly the landscape of southern Spain.

The Guardian - Film

It seems obvious that certain locations should have been excluded from gameplay.

The Guardian - Opinion

As with all Capcom adventure games, you can save only in certain locations.

The New York Times - Tech

Many states use forms that can only be filled out at certain locations, Childs says.

The Guardian

DJI's software already barred flights in certain locations, such as airports.

MIT Technology Review

The zone model defines certain locations within the larger workplace as private, quiet spaces.

Harvard Business Review

"It's a spontaneous thing that just erupts at certain locations," he said.

The New York Times

Judge Sherif said the problems invalidated only the returns from certain locations.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "certain locations", ensure the context makes it clear that these locations are specifically defined elsewhere or easily understood by the audience to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "certain locations" without providing sufficient context or a clear reference to what locations you are referring to. If the locations are not readily apparent, specify them for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain locations" functions as a noun phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate specific, but not explicitly named, places. It functions as an adjective, pointing out that the locations are not just any, but certain ones. According to Ludwig AI, this usage is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

35%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "certain locations" is a grammatically correct and versatile way to refer to specific places without explicitly naming them, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It is commonly used across various contexts, including news, science, and academia, with a generally neutral to professional register. While the phrase is widely accepted, it is important to provide sufficient context to ensure clarity. Alternatives such as "specific places" or "particular areas" can be used depending on the desired level of formality and specificity. By considering these factors, writers can effectively use "certain locations" to convey their intended meaning with precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

specific places

Replaces 'certain' with 'specific', emphasizing a definite and particular selection of places.

particular areas

Substitutes 'locations' with 'areas', offering a broader, less precise term for places.

designated spots

Uses 'designated' to highlight that the locations have been officially chosen or assigned.

select sites

Employs 'select' to indicate that the locations are chosen for a specific reason or purpose, and replaces 'locations' with 'sites'.

defined regions

Replaces 'locations' with 'regions', suggesting a larger or more geographically significant area.

precise points

Uses 'precise' to convey a high degree of accuracy in the location, and replaces 'locations' with 'points'.

specific venues

Substitutes 'locations' with 'venues', which implies that the places are settings for events or activities.

exact positions

Emphasizes the accuracy of the location, using 'exact' and replacing 'locations' with 'positions'.

predetermined locales

Highlights that the locations were chosen in advance, substituting 'certain' with 'predetermined' and 'locations' with 'locales'.

distinct territories

Replaces 'locations' with 'territories', which suggests areas with defined boundaries or control.

FAQs

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

You can use "certain locations" to refer to specific places without explicitly naming them. For example, "Restrictions apply in "specific areas"." or "The event will be held at "designated venues"".

What are some alternatives to "certain locations"?

Alternatives include "specific places", "particular areas", or "designated spots". The best choice depends on the context and the level of formality required.

Is it better to say "certain locations" or "specific locations"?

Both "certain locations" and "specific locations" are correct. "Specific locations" may be slightly more direct and clear, while "certain locations" can sometimes imply that the locations are known or understood by the audience.

When should I avoid using "certain locations"?

Avoid using "certain locations" if the specific places are unknown or irrelevant. In such cases, a more general term like "various places" or "some areas" might be more appropriate.