in certain cases

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in certain cases" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you want to refer to specific situations, such as "In certain cases, a jury trial is required."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

In certain cases there was trial by ordeal.

Britannica

"In certain cases, as in this one... it was clear.

Huffington Post

In certain cases, next time is never.

The Guardian - Books

"But we do see flocklike behavior in certain cases".

The New York Times

In certain cases landscape means geography, figuring out what's where.

The New York Times - Arts

Sort of -- in certain cases, they transitioned into civilian life.

The Washington Post

Malaysian law allows for child marriage in certain cases.

The New York Times

It may be deemed appropriate in certain cases.

Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

In certain cases the affiliation is unmistakable.

The New York Times - Arts

Therefore, a proof-load test is suggested in certain cases.

Procedia Engineering

And in certain cases, our bodies actually get stronger and better with age.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in certain cases" to introduce exceptions or specific conditions to a general rule or statement. This adds precision and avoids overgeneralization.

Common error

Avoid using "in certain cases" excessively, as it can make your writing sound hesitant or uncertain. Strive for a balance between specificity and conciseness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in certain cases" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or clause, introducing a condition or exception. It adds nuance by specifying that a statement applies only under particular circumstances. As Ludwig shows, it is often used to qualify generalizations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

22%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in certain cases" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to introduce conditions or exceptions to general statements. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and encyclopedia sources. To enhance your writing, use it to add precision and avoid overgeneralizations, but be mindful of overuse to maintain conciseness. Consider alternatives like "under certain circumstances" or "in some instances" to vary your phrasing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Under certain circumstances

Emphasizes the surrounding conditions that influence an outcome.

Under select conditions

Focuses on the controlled nature of the circumstances.

Depending on the situation

Indicates that the outcome is variable and context-dependent.

In some instances

Highlights that the situation occurs occasionally, not universally.

In specific situations

Focuses on particular scenarios where something applies.

Where applicable

Specifies that the action is only relevant in suitable circumstances.

In select situations

Emphasizes a careful choice of circumstances.

On occasion

Suggests a less frequent occurrence of the event.

For some scenarios

Directs attention to particular hypothetical situations.

Sometimes

Simplifies the condition to a general possibility.

FAQs

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

Use "in certain cases" to introduce a condition or exception to a general statement. For example, "Employees may be eligible for overtime pay "in certain cases", such as when they work more than 40 hours a week."

What's a good alternative to "in certain cases"?

Alternatives include "under certain circumstances", "in some instances", or "depending on the situation". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "in certain cases" or "in all cases"?

The choice depends on whether the statement applies universally or only under specific conditions. Use "in all cases" when the statement is always true. Use "in certain cases" when the statement is only true sometimes.

What does "in certain cases" imply about the frequency of an event?

"In certain cases" suggests that the event or situation is not universal or common but occurs under specific conditions. The frequency is less than 'often' or 'usually' but more than 'rarely'.