a particular thing

USAGE SUMMARY

"a particular thing" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to refer to a specific object or idea. For example, "I'm looking for a particular thing that I think will solve my problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Do Icelandic people have a particular thing for underwear?

The New Yorker

There is a particular thing that's not quite happening, and I don't mean winning.

Independent

"They will start using a particular thing, and they will bring other people along with them".

The New York Times

I never set out looking for a particular thing — I've never been successful doing that.

The New York Times

The cast asked questions about exactly where they should be when a particular thing happened.

The Guardian

Once you educate people on what a particular thing can do, they will always make it do something more.

The Guardian

Form is what makes a particular thing that something: it is the kiwi-ness of a kiwi.

The New York Times

Q: On the video it looked like you might have said a particular thing to him, a slur or something.

The New York Times

Empowerment is presented as if it were something that could be sectioned off and focused on a particular thing.

The Guardian

Having lots of children means a particular thing to some people, she says, and "you get comments".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

When asked if there is a particular thing she misses from home, Mardini took a moment to think it over.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a particular thing" when you want to emphasize the specificity of an item, detail, or aspect. It suggests that you are referring to something distinct rather than something general.

Common error

Avoid using "thing" too frequently without specifying its nature. While "a particular thing" adds some specificity, consider replacing "thing" with a more descriptive noun to enhance clarity and precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a particular thing" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig shows it is used to refer to a specific, but potentially unnamed, item, aspect, or detail.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

30%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a particular thing" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to denote a specific item or aspect without explicitly naming it. Ludwig shows it appears frequently in news, scientific, and general contexts, indicating its broad applicability. While generally acceptable, writers should consider using more descriptive nouns to enhance clarity when appropriate. The phrase functions to indicate a specific item or aspect and has a neutral register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A specific item

Replaces "thing" with "item", emphasizing a tangible object or unit.

A certain aspect

Substitutes "thing" with "aspect", highlighting a feature or part of something.

A distinct detail

Uses "detail" instead of "thing", focusing on a specific piece of information or element.

A precise point

Replaces "thing" with "point", emphasizing a specific idea or argument.

A unique element

Uses "element" instead of "thing", suggesting a component that is one of a kind.

A singular object

Substitutes "thing" with "object", emphasizing a physical entity that is individual.

A selected feature

Replaces "particular" with "selected" and "thing" with "feature", focusing on a chosen characteristic.

A specialized component

Uses "component" instead of "thing", suggesting a part of a larger system with a specific function.

A designated item

Substitutes "particular" with "designated" and "thing" with "item", focusing on an explicitly chosen element.

A characteristic trait

Replaces "thing" with "trait", emphasizing a distinguishing quality or attribute.

FAQs

How can I use "a particular thing" in a sentence?

Use "a particular thing" when you want to refer to something specific but may not want to name it directly. For example, "I'm looking for "a particular thing" that will help me solve this problem."

What can I say instead of "a particular thing"?

You can use alternatives like "a specific item", "a certain aspect", or "a distinct detail" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "a particular thing"?

While "thing" can be vague, "a particular thing" adds specificity, indicating that you are referring to something distinct rather than a general concept. It's generally acceptable, but consider using a more descriptive noun for enhanced clarity.

What's the difference between "a particular thing" and "a specific thing"?

The phrases "a particular thing" and "a specific thing" are largely interchangeable. Both emphasize that you are referring to a definite object or idea. "Specific" might imply a more precise or detailed focus compared to "particular".