certain settings

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain settings" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to specific environments or contexts in which something occurs or is applicable. Example: "In certain settings, the use of technology can enhance learning experiences significantly."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A data set of coincident events is computed for certain settings that contains each possible crystal combination once.

Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section A: Accelerators, Spectrometers, Detectors and Associated Equipment

However, in certain settings, productivity may suffer.

Harvard Business Review

In certain settings, shouting can motivate and entertain people.

The New York Times

Changing certain settings in the CMOS setup can help improve the computer's performance.

The New York Times - Tech

Both effects may be advantageous in certain settings, including biological organ systems.

International Journal of Solids and Structures

But Sullivan also says that the approach can sometimes work in certain settings.

Harvard Business Review

Through metabolic reprogramming, PML can afford a selective advantage for tumor cells in certain settings.

FEBS Letters

For that reason, it may be worthwhile in certain settings to presort the waste stream.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Normally, a big part of supportive living is we have to manage behaviors within certain settings.

The New York Times

(And this from a person who doesn't recognize his mother in certain settings).

The New York Times

Staphylococcus aureus is a ubiquitous bacterial species that causes serious disease in certain settings.

Vaccine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "certain settings", ensure the context clearly defines or implies what those settings are to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify the type of environment (e.g. "In certain educational settings...") or condition.

Common error

Avoid using "certain settings" as a vague substitute for specific details. Always strive to provide enough context or explanation to clarify which settings you are referring to, as omitting specifics can reduce the clarity and impact of your statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain settings" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used as an adverbial modifier. Ludwig AI indicates it's grammatically correct and widely used. It specifies the conditions or environment in which something occurs or is applicable, adding context to a statement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

30%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "certain settings" is a versatile and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to specify the context or environment in which a statement is applicable. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted and frequently used across various domains, including science, news, and academia. While useful, it's crucial to ensure the context makes the specific settings clear to avoid vagueness. For more formal or scientific writing, consider using more precise alternatives to enhance clarity. By following these guidelines, you can effectively incorporate "certain settings" into your writing while maintaining precision and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

specific environments

Focuses on the physical or virtual surroundings where something takes place.

particular contexts

Emphasizes the circumstances or situations that give rise to an event or condition.

specific circumstances

Highlights the detailed conditions or facts affecting an event or situation.

defined situations

Implies clearly outlined or established scenarios.

selective environments

Suggests environments chosen for specific characteristics or purposes.

precise conditions

Stresses the exact and necessary conditions for something to occur.

specialized scenarios

Refers to scenarios designed or adapted for specific purposes or fields.

peculiar circumstances

Highlights the unusual or unique nature of the circumstances.

designated contexts

Emphasizes that the contexts are officially or formally assigned.

restricted environments

Suggests limitations or controls on the environments in question.

FAQs

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

Use "certain settings" to refer to specific situations or environments where a particular condition, rule, or behavior applies. For example, "In certain medical settings, strict hygiene protocols are essential".

What are some alternatives to "certain settings"?

You can use alternatives like "specific environments", "particular contexts", or "defined situations" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

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

While "certain settings" is acceptable, providing more specific details about the settings can improve clarity and precision in your writing. For example, instead of saying "In certain settings, this is true", you could say "In academic research, this is true".

How does the formality of writing affect the use of "certain settings"?

The phrase "certain settings" is suitable for various formality levels. However, in highly formal or scientific writing, consider providing more detail or using more precise terms like "specific circumstances" or "designated contexts" to enhance clarity.