in a certain time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in a certain time" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific timeframe, such as "We must complete this project in a certain time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To himself he was merely an American of means operating in a certain time and place.

The New Yorker

"Others might be trapped in a certain time or emotion," he said.

The New York Times - Books

Thus, the metre is now defined as the distance light travels in a certain time.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But in case it doesn't work in a certain time frame we should resort to other options, including armed resistance".

The New York Times

This salt takes the contraband down, and in a certain time, it rises to the surface and they reclaim it.

The New Yorker

It's got restrictions and it has to be paid back in a certain time with interest paid on it.

Independent

I figured I might be able to use that test on myself – how many taps can I do in a certain time?

The Guardian

But definitely an adult, and fixed in a certain time when adulthood was something to aspire to, not something to be avoided.

The New Yorker

"That sketch was incredible because you know you're in something iconic, something that's firmly grounded in a certain time period," Ms. Stone said.

The New York Times - Arts

"It's a way to create a communal reading experience, so people can experience it in a certain time span together," Mr. Horowitz said.

The New York Times

It is necessary to conduct an internet auction in a certain time period.

Expert Systems with Applications

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in a certain time", ensure the context clarifies whether the timeframe is known or unknown to the reader. If known, consider specifying the duration for clarity.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on "in a certain time" when precision is needed. Vague references can confuse readers. Provide more specific durations or deadlines when possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a certain time" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs and clauses by specifying the temporal context. It indicates that an action or event occurs within a specific, though often unspecified, timeframe, as supported by the many examples found by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

32%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in a certain time" is a versatile phrase used to denote an action occurring within a specific duration. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and broadly applicable. While prevalent in News & Media and Science contexts, it is advisable to specify the duration when possible for improved clarity. Consider alternatives such as "within a specific timeframe" for more precision. Avoid overuse in contexts demanding explicit timelines to maintain effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

within a specific timeframe

Emphasizes a clearly defined period.

during a particular period

Highlights a notable duration with specific characteristics.

over a defined duration

Implies measuring elapsed time.

in a given timeframe

Suggests a pre-established or understood time interval.

for a limited period

Conveys a finite and constrained duration.

within a set duration

Suggests a predetermined time limit.

during a specific window

Emphasizes a short and well-defined time span.

at some point

Indicates an indefinite but singular moment.

eventually

Implies a future occurrence without specifying when.

in due course

Indicates that something will happen when appropriate or expected.

FAQs

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

Use "in a certain time" to indicate that something will happen or must be completed within a specific, though perhaps unspecified, period. For example, "The chemical reaction needs to occur in a certain time frame to be effective."

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

Alternatives include "within a specific timeframe", "during a particular period", or "in a given timeframe". The best choice depends on the context and desired level of specificity.

Is it better to be specific instead of saying "in a certain time"?

While "in a certain time" is grammatically correct, being more specific often improves clarity. If you know the timeframe, replace it with a precise duration, such as "within 24 hours" or "by next Tuesday".

What is the difference between "in a certain time" and "at a certain time"?

"In a certain time" refers to a duration or period, while "at a certain time" refers to a specific point in time. For example, "The package will arrive in a certain time" (duration), versus "The meeting starts at a certain time" (specific moment).