certain time of year

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain time of year" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific season or period within a year that is notable for a particular reason. Example: "Many people look forward to the holidays, as they bring a certain time of year filled with joy and celebration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Any household gardener knows that at a certain time of year, there might be a few too many tomatoes but way, way too many zucchinis.

The New York Times - Arts

At a certain time of year, the brilliant purple asters known as Raydon's Favorite fill the air with a minty perfume — nature's air freshener.

The New York Times

"We looked at the life cycle of fleas, and how over a certain time of year there has to be a certain moisture and temperature range," he said.

The New York Times

"There's a natural inclination on their part that at a certain time of year they think they should be doing something".

The New York Times - Sports

When Mr. Morell noticed how at a certain time of year the sun cast a shadow on the ground that mimicked his home's outline, he drew lines in the yard and placed his two children in the scene (Slide 8).

The New York Times

At a certain time of year, they perform Hindu ceremonies that involve putting money, flowers, fruit, and little ghee-burning lamps on paper plates and setting them afloat to go out with the tide.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Visitors may best enjoy cultural attractions and outdoor markets and festivals during certain times of year, which should also be considered when timing your Bangkok trip.

WikiHow

Experience dictates that you understand certain things about certain ingredients at certain times of year.

The New Yorker

Animals that feed on pasture are fat enough to be slaughtered only at certain times of year.

The New York Times

According to a 2003 study of Uganda's Budongo Forest, for instance, figs are the sole source of fruit for chimpanzees at certain times of year.

The New Yorker

The want hunters to be barred from using dogs at certain times of year, including the breeding season in January and February.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "certain time of year", clearly indicate the specific reason or event that makes that time notable. For example, "During a "certain time of year", many species of birds migrate south."

Common error

Avoid using "certain time of year" without providing context or specifics, as this can leave the reader confused. Always clarify which part of the year you are referring to, or why it's significant. Don't just say: "Things get busy at a "certain time of year"" when you could say: "Things get busy during the holiday season."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain time of year" functions as an adverbial phrase, specifying when an event occurs. It modifies a verb or clause by indicating the period during which the action takes place. Ludwig examples show its use in various contexts, demonstrating its ability to add temporal context.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Wiki

19%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "certain time of year" is a versatile phrase used to indicate a specific period or season when an event typically occurs. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability across various domains. While the phrase is common in news, wiki and scientific contexts, it's crucial to provide sufficient context to avoid vagueness. Alternatives such as "specific period of the year" or "particular season" can offer greater precision when needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

specific period of the year

Replaces 'certain' with 'specific', emphasizing a clearly defined portion of the year.

particular season

Focuses on the seasonal aspect, highlighting a specific season like spring, summer, autumn, or winter.

designated time of year

Implies that the time is set apart for a particular reason or activity.

specified time of year

Suggests a formal or official selection of the time.

defined period annually

Highlights the yearly recurrence of the defined period.

fixed time each year

Emphasizes the consistency and predictability of the time.

seasonal period

Refers to a period related to a specific season and its associated characteristics.

annual timeframe

Broader term indicating any timeframe that occurs yearly.

recurring time of year

Emphasizes that the time comes back each year.

established time of year

Highlights the time's traditional or long-standing recognition.

FAQs

What does "certain time of year" mean?

The phrase "certain time of year" refers to a particular period or season within a year that is significant for a specific reason, event, or characteristic. It implies that something noteworthy or predictable occurs during that time.

How can I use "certain time of year" in a sentence?

You can use "certain time of year" to describe when something typically happens, such as "Cherry blossoms bloom at a "specific period of the year"" or "Tourists flock to the coast during a "particular season"."

What are some alternatives to "certain time of year"?

Alternatives to "certain time of year" include "specific period of the year", "particular season", or "designated time of year", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "certain time of year" formal or informal?

"Certain time of year" is generally considered a neutral phrase suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, the level of formality can also depend on the surrounding language and the overall tone of the communication.