certain segment of society

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain segment of society" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific group or portion of the population that shares common characteristics or interests. Example: "The new policy has been met with resistance from a certain segment of society that feels it undermines their rights."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

While sentiment is hard to gauge, a certain segment of society rejects censorship.

The New York Times

There are definitely still pro-Mubarak supporters out there, people who hate al-Jazeera and think it was responsible for changing what was a very stable way of life for a certain segment of society.

The Guardian

The old Times Square was apparently something of an economic engine for a certain segment of society; the women's peep-show earnings support shiftless boyfriends, alcoholic mothers, drug dealers and, in some cases, children.

The New York Times

For a certain segment of society -- star-struck women over 18 -- the idea appeared to be irresistible; 400 of them showed up for the New York auditions, doting mothers and patient boyfriends in tow.

The New York Times - Arts

At a certain level of a certain segment of society, the one Gore Vidal calls America's ruling class, any conversation is destined at some point to become a narrative of tribal history.

The New York Times - Style

Some scholars treat the aggregate as a synthesis of the views of all or a certain segment of society; others regard it as a collection of many differing or opposing views.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

"Spatial isolation and the social concentration of certain segments of society will create discontent.

The Guardian

Social media datasets is likely to overrepresent the view of certain segments of society over others.

The Guardian

Unfortunately, certain segments of society probably encounter disproportionately large amounts of distraction and frustration.

Harvard Business Review

"In order for the F.B.I. to have any credibility with certain segments of society, we need to resolve it.

The New York Times

But it was the government's claim that LGBT events could provoke "reactions within certain segments of society" that respondents said was the most worrying.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "certain segment of society", be as specific as possible regarding the characteristics that define the group to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "certain segment of society" as a vague substitute for a more precise description of the group you are referring to. Always strive for clarity and specificity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain segment of society" functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It identifies a specific, though perhaps not explicitly defined, group within the larger societal context. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Academia

20%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "certain segment of society" is a grammatically sound and usable expression in English, primarily employed to denote a specific, identifiable group within a broader population. Ludwig AI confirms this. While it's relatively common, particularly in news, academic, and scientific contexts, it's essential to use the phrase with precision, ensuring that the intended group is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "particular group within society" or "specific section of the population" can offer enhanced clarity depending on the context. In summary, while versatile, thoughtful application is crucial to leverage the full potential of the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

particular group within society

Emphasizes the distinctiveness and specificity of the group.

specific section of the population

Highlights the demographic aspect of the group being referenced.

defined portion of the community

Focuses on the communal aspect and the boundaries of the group.

select demographic of individuals

Highlights the demographic characteristics of the chosen group.

identifiable subset of citizens

Stresses the civic aspect and the recognizability of the group.

certain sector of the populace

Uses "sector" to denote a specific area within the broader populace.

particular stratum of society

Emphasizes the hierarchical or layered aspect of the social structure.

specific echelon of the public

Highlights the ranking and public aspect.

a defined constituency within society

Highlights the idea of a group with specific interests or concerns.

a portion of the social fabric

Uses a metaphorical expression focusing on the integral and interconnected nature of society.

FAQs

How can I use "certain segment of society" in a sentence?

You can use "certain segment of society" to refer to a specific group of people within a larger population, for example, "The policy change disproportionately affects a certain segment of society".

What phrases are similar to "certain segment of society"?

Alternatives include "particular group within society", "specific section of the population", or "defined portion of the community".

Is it better to be specific instead of using "certain segment of society"?

While "certain segment of society" is grammatically correct, using more specific terms to describe the group in question can provide clarity and avoid ambiguity, leading to more effective communication.

What are the implications of policies that target a "certain segment of society"?

Policies targeting a "certain segment of society" can have both positive and negative consequences, potentially addressing specific needs or inadvertently creating disparities. It's essential to evaluate such policies carefully to ensure equitable outcomes.