To a certain extent
Example: I agree with you to a certain extent, but not completely.
Definition
"To a certain extent" is a phrase used to indicate that something is partially true or valid, but not entirely or completely. It expresses agreement or acknowledgement with some limitations or reservations, as in the example: I agree with you to a certain extent, but not completely.
Etymology
The phrase "to a certain extent" originates from Middle English, where 'certain' meant sure or definite, and 'extent' referred to the range or scope of something. Together, they formed an expression to describe the degree or limit to which something applies. Did you know? This phrase has been used in English since at least the 16th century to gently qualify statements.
Learn to use this expression actively
"To a certain extent" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (B1) - set 1", containing 123 commonly used expressions.
Would you like to not only understand these expressions, but also remember them and use them actively? Create a free account and select English as the language you want to learn.
Create a free account
