in certain respects

USAGE SUMMARY

"in certain respects" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe a case in which a situation is partial, not comprehensive. For example, "This development project was successful in certain respects, but ultimately failed to meet its primary goal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

In certain respects the plotline of "Kids" is fairly conventional.

The New York Times

In certain respects, Weber's critique is the more thoroughgoing.

The New Yorker

It will in certain respects be bigger than ever.

The New York Times - Sports

In certain respects his ideas were ahead of their time.

The New York Times

That men and women differ in certain respects is unassailable.

The New York Times

It is handsome, grand and, in certain respects, thoroughly familiar.

The New York Times - Arts

In certain respects, he is the perfect partner for Ryan.

The New York Times - Magazine

But it should be tougher in certain respects.

The Guardian - Opinion

Rembrandt's drawings reflect an environment that, in certain respects, wasn't so different from our own.

The New York Times

The task is difficult, and in certain respects the lines of distinction are arbitrary.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Additionally, compartmental models are inherently biased in certain respects.

BMC Infectious Diseases

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in certain respects" to introduce nuanced comparisons or qualifications, ensuring your writing avoids broad generalizations and acknowledges specific limitations.

Common error

Avoid using "in certain respects" as a vague disclaimer to mask a lack of specific analysis. Instead, clearly identify the aspects to which your statement applies to maintain clarity and precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in certain respects" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb, adjective, or another adverb to indicate a partial or limited scope. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase indicates a situation that is partial, not comprehensive.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

27%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in certain respects" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to introduce qualifications and limitations to statements. Ludwig AI indicates that it accurately reflects partial situations rather than comprehensive ones. Appearing frequently in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse writing contexts. To ensure clarity, avoid vagueness and clearly define the aspects to which your statement applies. Remember alternatives like "to some extent" or "in some ways" when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in some ways

Indicates similarity or applicability in some aspects, but not necessarily all.

to a certain extent

Implies a partial or limited degree of truth or validity.

in certain aspects

Highlights specific features or angles where a statement holds true.

to some extent

Expresses a degree of partiality or limitation in a situation, similar to "in certain respects".

to a degree

Implies a limited or partial extent of agreement or similarity.

in a limited sense

Specifies that something is true only within a restricted interpretation.

in part

Suggests that only a portion or aspect is true or applicable.

up to a point

Indicates that something is true or valid only to a limited extent.

partially

Indicates that something is only partly true or applicable.

in some cases

Highlights specific situations where a statement holds true.

FAQs

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

Use "in certain respects" to introduce a qualification or limitation to a statement. For example, "The new policy is beneficial "in certain respects", but it also has drawbacks".

What is a good alternative to "in certain respects"?

Alternatives include "to some extent", "in some ways", or "partially". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "in certain respects" or "in all respects"?

"In certain respects" indicates a partial agreement or similarity, while "in all respects" indicates a complete agreement or similarity. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the extent of the comparison.

What's the difference between "in certain respects" and "in some aspects"?

While both phrases convey partiality, "in certain respects" often refers to broader considerations, while "in some aspects" tends to focus on specific features or elements. They are largely interchangeable, but context may favor one over the other.