a certain

phrase

1

—used to refer to a quality that is noticed but that is difficult to explain or describe

She has a certain elegance about her.

The house has a certain charm.

2

formal

—used with the name of a person one does not know

In 1889, a certain Mr. Kelly made a large donation to the church.

Examples of a certain in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Even if Kansas offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki relies on KU’s run game, at a certain point Cole Ballard or Isaiah Marshall (depending on who is starting) will have to throw the ball and win Kansas games. — Shreyas Laddha, Kansas City Star, 31 July 2026

The movie’s biggest reveal involves the identity of the villain played by Sadie Sink — and plenty of questions remain about her future and what her appearance means for a certain fan-favorite mutant superhero team. — Tracy Brown, Los Angeles Times, 31 July 2026

At a certain point, the cost of living can price a movie out of an area. — Matt Minton, Variety, 31 July 2026

As a species that spews toxins into the air by burning fossil fuels, perhaps we humans should feel a certain kinship with these creatures. — Ben Crair, New Yorker, 31 July 2026

Rhymes for a certain

• uncertain
• bertin
• curtain