in a certain sense

USAGE SUMMARY

"in a certain sense" is a phrase that is widely used in written English and can be used to express that something is true under certain conditions or from a specific point of view.
For example, "In a certain sense, the outcome was a success, but there were still some areas that needed improvement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Which, in a certain sense, they were.

The New York Times

Thus, in a certain sense, we gradually augment tractable fragments.

Artificial Intelligence

Nay, but it is in a certain sense.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

In a certain sense, those tasks will merge, he added.

The New York Times - Arts

In a certain sense, that is what has happened now.

The New York Times

I have been in a certain sense robbed".

Independent

In a certain sense, it seems almost unnecessary.

The New York Times - Magazine

They are the last hope, in a certain sense.

Harvard Business Review

"And in a certain sense he did succeed".

The Guardian

Novel writing, in a certain sense, is a face climb.

The Guardian - Books

So in a certain sense I've never had it better. . . .

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in a certain sense" to introduce a nuanced perspective or to qualify a statement that might not be universally true. This adds precision and thoughtfulness to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "in a certain sense" too frequently, as it can make your writing sound hesitant or uncertain. Instead, consider more direct and precise language when possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a certain sense" functions as a qualifier or hedge, adding nuance and precision to a statement. It indicates that the statement is true under specific conditions or from a particular viewpoint. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

31%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in a certain sense" is a versatile qualifier used to introduce nuance and precision in writing and speech. As confirmed by Ludwig, it serves to indicate that a statement is true from a specific perspective or under particular conditions. It's commonly found in News & Media, Science, and Academia. While grammatically correct and widely used, overuse can dilute its impact. Alternatives such as "to some extent" or "in a way" can provide similar qualifications. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, writers can effectively use "in a certain sense" to add depth and thoughtfulness to their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a way

Implies that something is true or accurate from a particular viewpoint or interpretation.

from a certain perspective

Emphasizes that the statement is valid based on a specific viewpoint.

to some extent

Indicates a partial agreement or truth, suggesting the statement is not entirely accurate or applicable.

under certain conditions

Specifies that the statement is only true when specific conditions are met.

so to speak

Used to indicate that you are not using a word or phrase in its exact or literal sense.

to a degree

Suggests that a statement is true to a limited extent or under particular circumstances.

in a manner of speaking

Indicates that an expression should be taken figuratively rather than literally.

in some respects

Highlights specific aspects or details where a statement holds true, rather than the whole.

in a qualified way

Highlights that the statement needs to be interpreted with certain reservations or limitations.

on one level

Suggests that the statement is true or applicable within a specific layer or aspect of the subject.

FAQs

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

Use "in a certain sense" to qualify a statement or to indicate that something is true from a particular perspective. For example, "In a certain sense, the project was a success, even though it faced numerous challenges".

What phrases are similar to "in a certain sense"?

Alternatives include "to some extent", "in a way", or "from a certain perspective". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever incorrect to use "in a certain sense"?

While grammatically correct, overuse can weaken your writing. If a statement is unequivocally true, using "in a certain sense" might introduce unnecessary doubt or hesitation.

What's the difference between "in a certain sense" and "in a real sense"?

"In a certain sense" implies a qualified or specific perspective, while "in a real sense" suggests that something is genuinely true or significant, without necessarily qualifying it.