for certain occasions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for certain occasions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to specific events or situations where something is appropriate or applicable. Example: "I like to wear my formal dress for certain occasions, such as weddings and gala events."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

For certain occasions, Mr. Mottola travels with bodyguards.

The New York Times

"I don't know if everybody needs $100 underwear, but for certain occasions, it can be relevant," he said.

The New York Times

But Romney and the other candidates do still roll out the teleprompters for certain occasions, such as when the former Massachusetts governor recently delivered a major speech on foreign affairs at the Citadel.

The Washington Post

"Even considering the cultural difference, there is an appropriate manner for certain occasions... how can he put his hand in his pocket when meeting a leader of the state?" tweeted msryu67.

Independent

And as with other players, you can put in play lists for certain occasions, like taking a Sunday drive in the country or heading to work in the morning.

Forbes

Making them available for certain occasions makes financial sense.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Richard S. Kudlik enjoyed regaling his girlfriend with tales of his life as a United States marshal: of his dangerous assignments hunting fugitive criminals and of being so close to Hillary Rodham Clinton that she would request that he and his team provide for her security on certain occasions.

The New York Times

Think when you dress up for a certain occasion; do you find something appropriate to wear?

WikiHow

You may want to plan the cookout for a certain occasion, such as the Fourth of July or your birthday.

WikiHow

John Fountain's 13-year-old son dresses the part for an interview, He tells his son that first impressions are lasting and that certain occasions call for shirt and tie.

Huffington Post

Certain occasions call for steak – the bigger the better.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "for certain occasions" to specify that something is not always necessary or applicable but is suitable in particular situations, enhancing clarity and precision.

Common error

Avoid using "for certain occasions" excessively in highly formal writing. Opt for more precise language that specifies the conditions or events instead of relying on this general phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for certain occasions" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used as an adverbial modifier to specify when an action or state is applicable. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is deemed correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

29%

Science

12%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "for certain occasions" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to specify that something applies only under particular circumstances. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used. Its frequency is classified as common, particularly in news and media, wiki, and scientific contexts. When aiming for precision, consider alternatives like "on specific instances" or "in particular situations". While acceptable in many registers, avoid overuse in highly formal writing. As demonstrated across varied sources, "for certain occasions" is a useful tool for adding clarity and specificity to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on specific instances

Emphasizes particular instances, offering a slightly more formal tone than the original phrase.

in particular situations

Highlights specific situations where something is appropriate or necessary.

under certain circumstances

Focuses on the conditions that make something suitable or required.

when the need arises

Indicates that something is done only when a specific need becomes apparent.

for special events

Specifically refers to noteworthy gatherings or celebrations.

in select cases

Highlights that something applies only to a limited number of instances.

as the situation demands

Suggests flexibility and adaptation based on the requirements of the moment.

depending on the event

Emphasizes that the action or choice varies based on the type of event.

when appropriate

Indicates suitability and relevance to a particular context or situation.

for formal affairs

Specifically denotes situations involving a degree of ceremony or etiquette.

FAQs

How can I use "for certain occasions" in a sentence?

You can use "for certain occasions" to specify when something is appropriate or necessary, such as "I prefer to wear a suit "for certain occasions" like job interviews and weddings".

What are some alternatives to "for certain occasions"?

Alternatives include "on specific instances", "in particular situations", or "under certain circumstances", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "in certain occasions" instead of "for certain occasions"?

The correct and more common phrasing is ""for certain occasions"". "In certain occasions" is less idiomatic and may sound awkward to native English speakers.

What is the difference between "for certain occasions" and "on certain occasions"?

While both phrases are grammatically correct, ""for certain occasions"" generally implies purpose or suitability, whereas "on certain occasions" simply indicates timing or occurrence. For example, "I dress formally "for certain occasions"" suggests dressing formally is appropriate for specific events, while "I travel abroad on certain occasions" indicates when the travel happens.