certain sections

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain sections" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to specific parts or areas of a document, text, or any structured content. Example: "In the report, we will focus on certain sections that highlight the key findings and recommendations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Certain sections looked nearly complete, others were mere sketches.

The New York Times - Arts

Should certain sections be sung by solo or massed voices?

The New York Times - Arts

Such issues made recording certain sections "a beast," she recalled.

The New York Times - Books

Corbyn has demonstrated his ability to attract certain sections of those disaffected from the mainstream.

The Guardian - Opinion

Special attention is paid to certain sections such as the Fulton Fish Market and Park Avenue.

The New Yorker

The holes that were present in certain sections of the original treatment have disappeared".

The New York Times

Certain sections of town are better than others for this game.

The New Yorker

You've kept certain sections of Fleet Street afloat for another week.

The Guardian - Opinion

Even here in New York, certain sections of the foreign population take this precaution.

The New Yorker

We have here in the boroughs certain sections where nobody's living any more.

The New York Times

I can recall the layout, where certain sections of books were, the smells, and the sounds.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "certain sections", ensure the context clearly indicates which sections are being referred to, avoiding ambiguity for the reader. If possible, specify the criteria that make these sections 'certain' or distinct.

Common error

Avoid using "certain sections" without providing enough context or specificity. If the reader cannot easily identify which sections are being discussed, the phrase becomes vague and loses its impact. Instead of saying 'certain sections of the book are difficult,' specify which chapters or parts present challenges.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain sections" functions as a determiner phrase, specifying particular parts or areas of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is often used to narrow the focus within a larger context, directing attention to specific portions of text, locations, or groups.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

23%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "certain sections" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to refer to specific portions of a larger whole. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is widely employed across diverse contexts, including news, science, and general writing. Its primary function is to focus attention on particular areas, indicating they are distinct or important. While generally neutral in tone, its precision makes it suitable for professional and academic settings. When using "certain sections", clarity and context are key to ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

specific parts

Focuses on the specificity of the portions being referenced.

particular segments

Emphasizes the distinctiveness and separateness of the portions.

selected areas

Highlights that the sections have been chosen or designated.

designated portions

Suggests the sections have been officially assigned or marked.

specific segments

Focuses on a particular part of something, similar to specific parts.

some components

Refers to parts of a whole, often used in a technical context.

relevant excerpts

Implies the sections are chosen for their importance to a topic.

pertinent fragments

Emphasizes the relevance and incompleteness of the selected parts.

key passages

Highlights the importance and significance of the sections.

notable elements

Suggests the sections are noteworthy or remarkable.

FAQs

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

You can use "certain sections" to refer to specific parts of a document, text, or area without naming each one individually. For example, "certain sections of the report require further analysis.

What are some alternatives to "certain sections"?

Alternatives include "specific parts", "particular segments", or "selected areas", depending on the context.

Is it more formal to say "certain sections" or "specific parts"?

"Certain sections" and "specific parts" are generally interchangeable in terms of formality. The choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

What is the difference between "certain sections" and "individual sections"?

"Certain sections" refers to specific, but not necessarily all, sections that meet a particular criterion. "Individual sections", on the other hand, emphasizes each section separately, without necessarily implying a shared criterion. For example: "Each "individual sections" of this report requires careful analysis".