I owe that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I owe that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing gratitude or acknowledging a debt of appreciation to someone for something they have done. Example: "I owe that to my mentor, who guided me through the challenges of my career."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

I owe that guy my life".

Independent

I owe that much to you.

The New Yorker

"I owe that much to her and myself".

The New York Times - Sports

"They asked me if I owe child support, if I owe this, if I owe that," Mr. Fullerton said.

The New York Times

In response, people might say, "Yes, I know I owe that" or "No, that's my insurance" or "I never was there".

The New York Times

A lot of what I am I owe that woman".

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

For him to come to a point where he can answer a phone call from the collection agency and say calmly, "Yes, I do owe that debt.

Huffington Post

So I kind of owe that part of me.

The Guardian - Music

"I believe we owe that much to those who are affected in Ukraine," she said.

BBC

A lot of this record is influenced by one relationship, but I don't owe that whole project to one situation.

Wikipedia

"I owed that to my wife and the kids.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I owe that" to acknowledge a debt, either tangible or intangible, to someone or something. Ensure the context clearly indicates what is being owed and to whom.

Common error

Avoid using "I owe that" without clearly specifying what you are attributing the debt to. For example, instead of saying "I owe that", specify "I owe my success to hard work and dedication".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I owe that" functions as an expression of acknowledgment or gratitude. It indicates that the speaker recognizes a debt, whether tangible or intangible, to someone or something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is valid and suitable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Wiki

7%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I owe that" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that conveys a sense of gratitude, obligation, or acknowledgment. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. It appears most commonly in news and media contexts and serves to attribute a debt, whether tangible or intangible, to a specific source. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity in specifying what is being owed and to whom. Alternatives like "I'm grateful for that" or "I appreciate that" offer similar expressions with slightly different nuances. By understanding these subtle distinctions, you can effectively communicate your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I am in your debt for that

Expresses a strong sense of obligation to a specific person.

I am beholden to you for that

A formal and emphatic way of expressing gratitude and obligation.

I'm indebted for that

Uses 'indebted' to convey a stronger sense of obligation.

I'm obliged for that

Similar to 'indebted' but slightly more formal.

I'm grateful for that

Shifts the focus to gratitude rather than owing something.

I give credit for that

Highlights giving recognition or acknowledgement to someone or something.

I appreciate that

A more general expression of thanks or recognition.

I recognize that

Highlights the recognition of something's value or importance.

I acknowledge that

Focuses on recognizing a fact or contribution.

I attribute that to

Emphasizes the cause or source of something.

FAQs

How can I use "I owe that" in a sentence?

You can use "I owe that" to express gratitude or acknowledge something you received. For instance, "I owe that success to my mentor" or "I owe that gentleman an apology".

What can I say instead of "I owe that"?

Alternatives to "I owe that" include "I'm grateful for that", "I appreciate that", or "I'm indebted for that", depending on the context.

Is "I owe that to him" the same as "I owe him that"?

While both express obligation, "I owe that to him" emphasizes what is owed, while "I owe him that" highlights the person to whom it is owed. The difference is subtle, but "I owe that to him" can sound more formal.

When is it appropriate to use "I owe that"?

It's appropriate to use "I owe that" when you want to acknowledge a debt, whether it's a debt of gratitude, an apology, or something tangible. Ensure the context makes it clear what "that" refers to.