certain order

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain order" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific arrangement or sequence of items or events. Example: "The documents must be submitted in a certain order to ensure proper processing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Plus, the budget imposed a certain order.

The Guardian - Film

Keeping a certain order is healthier for me.

The New Yorker

"From our side there should be a certain order".

The Guardian - Sport

Fighting is nothing more than pushing buttons in a certain order.

The New York Times - Tech

And even animals have a certain order of their own — the wolves, the sheep.

The New Yorker

"Usually boards want the package in a certain order," she said.

The New York Times

"I always have to put the makeup on in a certain order," he says.

The Guardian

He arranged his books and some loose papers in a certain order, then rearranged them.

The New Yorker

So habit or custom produces a certain order of ideas in a person's mind.

The Guardian - Opinion

When I first got the degree, I felt as if I had been inducted to a certain order of society.

The New York Times - Magazine

"They had to travel down the highway in a certain order so the scene went from one to another".

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "certain order", ensure the context clearly indicates what that order is or why it is important. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "certain order" without providing sufficient context or details about the specifics of that order. Be explicit or provide enough information for the reader to understand what the order entails.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain order" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as an object of a preposition (e.g., "in a certain order"). As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "certain order" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig. It denotes a specific sequence or arrangement, often essential for achieving a particular outcome. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for diverse contexts, including news, science, and general writing. Common usage involves specifying actions or items that must follow a defined sequence. Related phrases such as "specific sequence" or "particular arrangement" can be used as alternatives, depending on the desired nuance. To ensure clarity, it's crucial to provide sufficient context when using this phrase. With 65 examples from Ludwig, it's clear that "certain order" is a versatile and valuable part of the English lexicon.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

specific sequence

Focuses on the sequential aspect, emphasizing a particular order of elements.

particular arrangement

Highlights the organized manner in which elements are placed or set out.

defined sequence

Emphasizes the clarity and established nature of the order.

established protocol

Implies a standardized and accepted procedure to be followed.

fixed arrangement

Focuses on the immutability and pre-determined nature of the arrangement.

predetermined sequence

Highlights that the order was decided in advance.

prescribed manner

Indicates that the order is not only specific but also mandated or required.

designated format

Implies a structured layout that has been officially chosen.

systematic order

Underlines the methodical and organized nature of the sequence.

orderly fashion

Stresses the neat, organized and structured way of doing things.

FAQs

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

You can use "certain order" to describe a specific sequence or arrangement of items or events. For example: "The steps must be followed in a "certain order" to ensure success."

What phrases are similar to "certain order"?

Similar phrases include "specific sequence", "particular arrangement", or "defined sequence". The best choice depends on the specific context.

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

Both "certain order" and "specific order" are correct. "Specific order" may provide a slightly stronger emphasis on the defined nature of the order.

In what situations is the phrase "certain order" most appropriate?

The phrase "certain order" is suitable when you want to indicate that a specific sequence or arrangement is required or preferred, without necessarily detailing what that order is. It's useful when the details are already known or will be provided elsewhere.