a design that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a design that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a specific design or concept that has particular characteristics or features. Example: "The project will showcase a design that emphasizes sustainability and innovation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a design that insists on being recognized as design.

The Guardian - Books

Years ago, I discovered a design that does work.

The Washington Post

A design that employs quadrupoles is mentioned.

Advances in Imaging and Electron Physics

I want a design that uses Cancer Research UK's resources in a smart manner, and a design that is different from previous ARGs.

The Guardian - Tech

A compromise was reached in December with a design that incorporated both elements.

The New York Times - Arts

Your architect has proposed a design that does not conform to the contextual zoning.

The New York Times - Arts

For shoe mavens, Leslie Hunter has patented a design that becomes two gifts in one.

The New York Times

Beyond the portholes, changes are minor to a design that dates to 1997.

The New York Times

Not in a design that is all about the informal use of public space.

The New York Times - Arts

It's a fine example of a design that doesn't wear its concept on its sleeve.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I can't remember seeing a design that is so eloquent about another work of architecture.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a design that", ensure the following clause clearly and concisely describes a key characteristic or purpose of the design.

Common error

Avoid using overly complex or ambiguous clauses after "a design that". Clarity enhances readability and ensures the design's defining feature is easily understood.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a design that" functions as a noun phrase followed by a relative clause. It introduces a specific design and specifies its key characteristics or purpose. Ludwig AI confirms that this is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

8%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a design that" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase for specifying the qualities of a design. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, highlighting its function as a noun phrase followed by a defining relative clause. It appears most frequently in "News & Media" and "Wiki" contexts, maintaining a neutral register appropriate for professional yet accessible communication. Alternatives include "a layout which" or "a concept that", depending on the specific emphasis needed. When using this phrase, ensure clarity in the subsequent clause to effectively convey the design's key characteristics.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a layout which

Replaces "design" with "layout" and "that" with "which", focusing on the arrangement aspect.

a concept that

Substitutes "design" with "concept", emphasizing the underlying idea or plan.

a plan that

Replaces "design" with "plan", highlighting the intended course of action.

a system that

Substitutes "design" with "system", focusing on the structured organization of elements.

a model that

Replaces "design" with "model", often used in scientific or technical contexts.

a structure that

Substitutes "design" with "structure", emphasizing the arrangement of parts.

an approach that

Replaces "design" with "approach", focusing on a method or strategy.

a method that

Replaces "design" with "method", highlighting a particular way of doing something.

a strategy that

Substitutes "design" with "strategy", emphasizing a long-term plan to achieve a goal.

a framework that

Replaces "design" with "framework", focusing on a basic structure underlying a system or concept.

FAQs

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

Use "a design that" to introduce a design and specify its defining characteristic. For example, "The company is working on "a design that" prioritizes user experience".

What are some alternatives to "a design that"?

You can use alternatives such as "a layout which", "a concept that", or "a plan that" depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "a design that" and "a design which"?

While both "a design that" and "a design which" are grammatically correct, "that" is generally preferred in restrictive clauses (clauses essential to the sentence's meaning), while "which" is used in non-restrictive clauses (clauses that add extra information but aren't essential). In practice, ""a design that"" is more commonly used.

What makes a clause with "a design that" effective?

An effective clause following ""a design that"" clearly and concisely describes the design's key function, feature, or purpose. It should be unambiguous and contribute meaningfully to the sentence.