in particular instances

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in particular instances" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to specify certain cases or situations that are being discussed or referred to. Example: "The policy may not apply universally, but it is effective in particular instances where the circumstances align."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

In addition to the above, in particular instances throughout the ages rabbinic authorities promulgated ordinances (taqqanot) and edicts (gezerot).

Encyclopedia Britannica

A related feature of archetypes is that, while they shape our perceptions and behaviour, we only become conscious of them indirectly, as they are manifest in particular instances.

The Guardian - Opinion

Aristotle was also alleged to be a Realist, because he too thought that Forms were really there, although only as embodied in particular instances.

Britannica

These are alternatives to powerful, well established, but in particular instances, possibly 'cumbersome' general-purpose numerical techniques, such as finite-element approaches based on constrained optimization.

International Journal of Solids and Structures

But he wouldn't say whether he thought Mr Bush has broken the law in particular instances, because that would prejudge cases that might well come before him.

The Economist

It would be open to the CDPP, in making independent decisions on this matter, to have regard to any public interest in the communication of information in particular instances as the CDPP considers appropriate".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

The plaintiffs were clearly suing on principle wanting to establish that in these particular instances the media maliciously got things wrong.

The New Yorker

It is as if, in these particular instances, some window to what we think of as our common humanity had been closed.

The New York Times

Hence instead of recording sitting, the device will record lying down in these particular instances.

BioMed Research International

It seems to me, in this particular instance, in terms of lack of influence on national and international events, that I had the upper hand.

The New Yorker

In one particular instance in Costa Mesa, a repeat felon asked one of our officers to keep his backpack for three days until he was released.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in particular instances" to add precision when you want to highlight that a general statement doesn't apply universally. This phrase clarifies that what you're saying is true for some cases, but not all.

Common error

Avoid using "in particular instances" when "in some cases" or "sometimes" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound verbose and less direct. Choose simpler alternatives when the added emphasis isn't necessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in particular instances" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb, adjective, or another adverb to specify the scope or condition under which something is true. It adds precision by limiting the application of a statement to certain situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Academia

30%

News & Media

30%

Science

28%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in particular instances" is a versatile tool for adding precision to your writing. As demonstrated by Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across various domains, including academia, news, and science. It serves to clarify that a statement applies specifically to certain cases, preventing overgeneralization. Alternatives such as "in specific cases" or "in certain situations" can be used depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis. Remember to use it judiciously to maintain clarity and avoid unnecessary verbosity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in specific cases

Replaces "particular" with "specific", emphasizing a more precise selection of instances.

in certain situations

Focuses on the situational aspect, highlighting the context in which the instances occur.

in select instances

Uses "select" to indicate a carefully chosen or distinguished group of instances.

under certain circumstances

Highlights that the instances are dependent on specific conditions being met.

in individual situations

Stresses the uniqueness and separate nature of each situation being considered.

on occasion

Offers a shorter, more general way to indicate that something happens sometimes, but not always.

in given scenarios

Focuses on hypothetical or presented situations where something might occur.

in determined cases

This alternative suggests instances are identified after careful consideration or investigation.

as a case in point

Emphasizes the illustrative nature of the instance, presenting it as a clear example.

for example

Introduces a concrete illustration of a general statement, providing clarity through a specific case.

FAQs

How can I use "in particular instances" in a sentence?

You can use "in particular instances" to specify certain cases where a general rule or statement applies, for example: "The policy may not always be effective, but it is useful "in particular instances" when dealing with minor infractions".

What are some alternatives to "in particular instances"?

Some alternatives include "in specific cases", "in certain situations", or "on occasion" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "in particular instances" or "in general"?

"In particular instances" is used to specify exceptions or specific situations, while "in general" refers to a broad or overall trend. The choice depends on whether you're highlighting specific cases or making a general statement.

What's the difference between "in particular instances" and "for example"?

"In particular instances" indicates specific situations where something applies, whereas "for example" introduces a concrete illustration of a general point. "In particular instances" sets a condition; "for example" provides an illustration.