certain otherwise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain otherwise" is not a standard expression in written English and may cause confusion.
It could be used in contexts where you want to indicate a specific condition or exception, but it is not commonly recognized. Example: "The results are valid, but certain otherwise conditions may apply."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Under this doctrine, certain otherwise anticompetitive labor-management agreements are permitted.

The New York Times - Sports

Pooley teases Fullah: "You couldn't have been certain otherwise you wouldn't have needed to pray.

The Guardian

According to a controversial notion known as the anthropic principle, certain otherwise baffling features of the universe can only be understood by including ourselves in the equation.

The New York Times - Science

Under their traditions, this expands the domain of the home, allowing certain otherwise forbidden "work," like pushing baby carriages, on the Sabbath.

The New York Times

Before this date, "history" was of architectural importance only as a means of justifying, by reference to classical mythology, the use of certain otherwise irrational elements, such as caryatids.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Prior judicial review for national security letters: We endorse similar restrictions on the issuance of National Security Letters (by which the Federal Bureau of Investigation now compels individuals and organizations to turn over certain otherwise private records), recommending prior judicial review except in emergencies, where time is of the essence.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Your performances must be of a certain calibre, otherwise you wouldn't keep being cast.

The Guardian - Film

The curved wooden surfaces need to curve in certain ways, otherwise they may themselves produce extra lines.

The Guardian

If he thought the Tories were facing certain defeat otherwise, I think we can take that as given.

Independent

With the limitation of the craft, you have to focus on a certain individual – otherwise it would become like a documentary".

The Guardian

Phil Gridelet, Dean Holness and Declan Perkins were the men involved, the latter being one of seven siblings who also number a certain Louise Lombard, otherwise known as Sophia Curtis in CSI.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "certain otherwise" to clearly indicate exceptions or conditions that may alter an expected outcome. It adds precision to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "certain otherwise" in simple sentences where a more straightforward phrasing would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex.

Linguistic Context

"Certain otherwise" functions as an adverbial modifier, specifying conditions or exceptions that affect the validity or applicability of a statement. Ludwig examples show this usage in contexts where specific factors can alter a general rule or expected outcome. It adds a layer of qualification to the statement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

32%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "certain otherwise" serves as a conditional adverbial phrase, used to introduce specific exceptions or conditions that modify a general statement. While Ludwig indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used in diverse sources, from News & Media to Science, it's advisable to use it judiciously to avoid unnecessary complexity. It is important to consider simpler alternatives when the context allows. The phrase is generally neutral in tone and is most effective when precision and clarity are paramount.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under different circumstances

Focuses on changing the conditions, implying a different outcome.

in other cases

Highlights alternative instances or situations.

absent specific conditions

Emphasizes the lack of particular requirements leading to a different result.

unless stated differently

Indicates a deviation from a general rule based on explicit exceptions.

barring certain factors

Introduces the idea that specific influences could alter the expected outcome.

except when specified

Highlights exceptions to a general statement.

without additional considerations

Focuses on the exclusion of extra elements influencing the outcome.

apart from exceptions

Directly points out that certain instances do not follow the general pattern.

excluding particular situations

Identifies certain scenarios that are not included in the general rule.

if conditions are not met

Specifies a conditional requirement for a different outcome.

FAQs

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

You can use "certain otherwise" to introduce a condition that changes the expected outcome. For example: "The plan will proceed as scheduled, but "certain otherwise" unforeseen circumstances could delay it".

What is a simpler way to express the meaning of "certain otherwise"?

Alternatives include phrases like "except under specific conditions", "unless stated differently", or "barring certain factors" depending on the intended nuance.

Is the phrase "certain otherwise" formal or informal?

The phrase "certain otherwise" is generally considered neutral and can be used in various writing contexts, including formal and informal settings.

What's the difference between "certain otherwise" and "otherwise"?

"Otherwise" generally implies a default condition if something isn't true. "Certain otherwise" specifies that this default condition only applies unless specific conditions change things.