on a certain date

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a certain date" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a specific day in the future or past. For example, "We plan to meet in person on a certain date in October."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

The folder contained a list of people executed in one prison on a certain date.

The New York Times

You can leave lists of the shared clothes, and if one is being worn on a certain date, post that it is not available for borrowing.

WikiHow

Thus, if each presiding officer makes the announcement at a different time (for instance because one house is not sitting on a certain date), assent is regarded as effective when the second announcement is made.

Wikipedia

We, the United States, had even signed an agreement that on a certain date they would become one country.

The Guardian

You can have very intimate encounters with people when they come there but then it's always a one-of encounter because they come once a year, on a certain date.

Huffington Post

For example, he had previously denied visiting a nearby town on a certain date and selling his wife's jewelry.

The New Yorker

At intervals you will be told that you will be put to death on a certain date.

The New Yorker

Unlike regular shares of stock, however, options expire on a certain date and option holders must actively manage their portfolio.

The New York Times

"But because this is a court program, it forces everybody to come to mediation on a certain date," he said.

The New York Times

"I can't tell you on a certain date, but I'm very optimistic it will be soon," Mr. Graham said.

The New York Times

They then had to physically manufacture the records and get them into the shops on a certain date, coordinating poster campaigns and TV appearances accordingly.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on a certain date", ensure the context clearly indicates what event or action is associated with that date. This avoids ambiguity and ensures clarity for the reader or listener.

Common error

Avoid using "on a certain date" without providing enough context. If the date is already known to the audience, use "on that date" instead. If the date is important, specifying it explicitly is usually preferable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a certain date" functions as an adverbial phrase of time, modifying a verb or clause to indicate when an action occurs. Ludwig provides numerous examples where this phrase sets a temporal context for events or deadlines.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

8%

Academia

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on a certain date" serves as a versatile adverbial phrase, effectively pinpointing events in time across diverse contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use in news, scientific literature, and general writing. While it's a common and acceptable phrase, clarity can often be enhanced by specifying the exact date directly or using alternative expressions like "on a specific date" when precision is paramount. Remember to maintain contextual clarity to prevent vagueness and optimize communication effectiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on a definite date

Specifies a date that is fixed and not subject to change, implying more certainty than "on a certain date".

on a particular date

Highlights that the date is distinct and specific, similar to "on a certain date" but emphasizes the uniqueness of the date.

on a specific date

Implies the date is clearly defined and unambiguous, offering a more precise tone compared to "on a certain date".

on a given date

Indicates the date has been predetermined or already mentioned, adding a sense of context that "on a certain date" might lack.

on a selected date

Highlights that the date was chosen from a range of options, focusing on the act of selection more than "on a certain date".

on a precise date

Emphasizes accuracy and exactness in timing, adding a level of detail not necessarily present in "on a certain date".

on one particular date

Adds emphasis that only one specific date is relevant, drawing attention to the singularity of the event.

on a specified date

Suggests the date is explicitly stated or outlined, giving it a formal tone compared to "on a certain date".

on a determined date

Indicates the date was decided after a deliberation or selection process, emphasizing the decision-making aspect.

by a set date

Implies a deadline that must be met, focusing on the boundary of time more than the particular moment itself.

FAQs

How can I use "on a certain date" in a sentence?

Use "on a certain date" to refer to a specific point in time when something will happen or has happened. For example, "The project is scheduled to be completed on a certain date in December".

What's the difference between "on a certain date" and "on a specific date"?

While both phrases refer to a particular day, "on a specific date" is more direct and emphasizes clarity. "On a certain date" can imply the date is known but not immediately stated. Consider using "on a specific date" when precision is key.

What are some alternatives to using "on a certain date"?

Depending on the context, alternatives could include "on a particular date", "on a given date", or specifying the exact date directly for clarity.

Is it better to say "on a certain date" or just state the date?

In most cases, stating the exact date is clearer and more direct. Use "on a certain date" when you want to refer to a date without immediately specifying it, perhaps to build suspense or provide context before revealing the exact date.