I second that

USAGE SUMMARY

"I second that" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used when one concurs with an opinion that has already been stated by someone else. For example, you might say "I second that - we should definitely look into getting a new car."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

I second that challenge.

The New York Times

8 30 P.M. (4) WILL & GRACE -- "I Second That Emotion".

The New York Times

She explicitly invited the full family court to do so, and I second that invitation.

The Guardian - Opinion

I second that, but I have a more base reason for wanting to move beyond New Atheism.

The Guardian - Opinion

He's better than that -- "Shop Around," "Mickey's Monkey," "I Second That Emotion" and "Tracks of My Tears" were not flukes.

The New York Times

I'd be really happy if I could write a song as universal and accessible as I Second That Emotion," he says.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

I'll second that.

The Guardian - Music

I'll second that, having just published my first book.

Huffington Post

That's what I did first, that's where it all began for me.

Los Angeles Times

Heck, I first made that case almost 14 years ago!

The New York Times

"I laughed when I first saw that statement.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I second that" to succinctly express your agreement with a previously stated opinion, especially in meetings or discussions where brevity is valued.

Common error

Avoid using "I second that" in highly formal or academic writing; opt for more sophisticated expressions of agreement like "I concur" or "I support this assertion."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I second that" functions as an interjection or short declarative statement expressing agreement with a previous statement or proposal. It is a concise way to indicate support, as shown by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

2%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I second that" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to express agreement with a previous statement. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is indeed correct and usable in written English. While primarily found in news and media contexts, its usage extends to formal business settings, though more formal expressions of agreement may be preferred in highly academic or scientific writing. Remember, while concise, ensure its level of formality aligns with the context to maintain effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I agree with that

Replaces the idiom with a more straightforward expression of agreement.

I concur with that

Uses a more formal synonym for "agree," suitable for professional settings.

I support that

Shifts the focus to offering support for the idea or proposal.

I am in agreement

A slightly more elaborate way of saying "I agree,"

That's exactly what I think

Emphasizes that the speaker already held the same opinion.

I'm of the same opinion

Similar to "I agree" but highlights the speaker's existing viewpoint.

I share that view

Highlights that the speaker and the previous person hold the same perspective.

I'm all for that

Indicates enthusiastic support for the idea.

Consider it seconded

A more proactive statement, implying agreement and formal backing.

I couldn't agree more

Expresses strong agreement, emphasizing the lack of disagreement.

FAQs

What does "I second that" mean?

The phrase "I second that" means that you agree with what someone else has just said. It's a way to show your support for a statement or proposal.

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

It's appropriate to use "I second that" in meetings, discussions, or informal writing when you want to quickly and clearly show that you agree with a previous statement. Avoid using it in formal academic papers.

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

You can use alternatives like "I agree with that", "I concur with that", or "I support that" depending on the context.

Is "I second that" grammatically correct?

Yes, "I second that" is grammatically correct and widely accepted in spoken and written English, particularly in informal contexts.