certain types

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain types" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to refer to specific categories or groups within a larger group. For example: - Certain types of fish are known for their high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. - The company offers discounts for certain types of customers, such as seniors and students. - We have identified certain types of bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics. - The museum's collection includes paintings from certain types of artists, such as Impressionists and Surrealists. - Our school offers extracurricular activities in certain types of sports, such as basketball and soccer.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There are certain types.

The Guardian

Only certain types qualify.

The New York Times

Certain types do even better.

The New York Times

Parents come in certain types.

The Guardian

Certain types of felon are automatically barred.

The Guardian

They bought records, certain types of trousers, certain types of jackets.

The Guardian - Music

These incentives often target certain types of teachers in certain types of positions.

Stanford University

And it would prohibit certain types of advertising considered misleading.

The New York Times

"It's still a great model for certain types of sales".

The New York Times - Tech

We can't stop certain types of people coming in".

The Guardian

Certain types of development may slow, or change.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "certain types", ensure the context clearly defines the broader category you are selecting from. For example, instead of saying "certain types of cars are expensive", specify 'luxury' or 'sports' cars for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "certain types" without providing any further specification or examples. This can lead to vagueness and confusion. Instead of saying "certain types of foods are bad", be specific: "certain types of processed foods, like those high in trans fats, are detrimental to your health".

Linguistic Context

"Certain types" functions as a determiner phrase that modifies a noun, indicating that the statement applies to some, but not all, members of the category represented by the noun. It narrows the scope to particular instances. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Academia

11%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Certain types" is a versatile phrase used to specify subsets within larger categories, offering a way to narrow the scope of a discussion or statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted. Usage analysis reveals its prevalence in News & Media, Academia, and Wiki sources, reflecting a generally neutral register. To effectively use "certain types", ensure clarity by providing context or examples, and avoid overgeneralization. Consider alternatives like "particular types" or "specific kinds" to fine-tune your meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

particular types

Emphasizes specificity and individual instances within a larger category.

specific kinds

Highlights the distinct nature and unique attributes of various categories.

certain categories

Directly indicates predefined groupings with shared characteristics.

specific forms

Focuses on the structured appearance or manifestation of something.

defined classes

Implies formally recognized and categorized groupings.

some varieties

Suggests a selection from a range of different forms or types.

select groups

Highlights a deliberate choice of particular groupings.

some sorts

Informally indicates a range of different kinds or types.

limited number of types

Specifies a restriction in the quantity of types being discussed.

distinctive types

Focuses on the unique and easily recognizable nature of various types.

FAQs

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

Use "certain types" to refer to a specific subset within a larger category. For example, "Certain types of exercise, such as swimming and cycling, are low-impact".

What are some alternatives to "certain types"?

You can use alternatives like "particular types", "specific kinds", or "certain categories" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it better to use "certain types" or "specific types"?

Both "certain types" and "specific types" are correct, but "specific types" may imply a higher degree of precision. The choice depends on the context and the level of detail you want to convey.

Can "certain types" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "certain types" is appropriate for formal writing, but ensure the context provides sufficient clarity. In some cases, a more precise term might be preferable to avoid ambiguity.