Can I say "a certain word" and "certain words" ?
Sometimes, when I mention some general things, can I say?

1. A certain car. (one general car)

2. Certain cars. (more than one car)

Which one is correct?

Question

Can I say "a certain word" and "certain words" ?
Sometimes, when I mention some general things, can I say?

1. A certain car. (one general car)

2. Certain cars. (more than one car)

Which one is correct?

Answer

Hi Lawrence,

Both are correct. "A certain" implies that the noun following it is singular, so as long as there's a singular noun, you're fine. "Certain" without an article before it implies that the noun following it is plural.

Answer

Yes, you can say "a certain car" to refer to a specific car, and also "certain cars" to refer to a certain distinct group of cars, for example: "Certain cars are more fuel efficient than others."

Hope this helps

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