a real thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a real thing" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is usually used to emphasize that something is genuine, tangible, or significant. Example: "I thought love at first sight was just a fairy tale, but meeting you proved that it's a real thing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"It's a real thing".

The New York Times

Firstly, it's a real thing.

Independent

"You guys are, like, a real thing?

The New York Times

"Activist burnout is a real thing.

The New York Times

It suddenly had become a real thing".

The New Yorker

(This is a real thing).

The New Yorker

Is it a real thing?

The Guardian

It was a real thing.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Is there a real thing?

The Guardian - Arts

"It's a real thing I'm doing".

The New Yorker

Poetry in Motion Sickness is a real thing.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a real thing" to emphasize the authenticity or tangibility of something, especially when it might be doubted or questioned. For example, "Despite the skepticism, climate change is "a real thing" affecting ecosystems worldwide."

Common error

While "a real thing" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid overusing it in formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and sophisticated language to convey the same meaning. For example, instead of saying "the economic impact was "a real thing"", try "the economic impact was significant" or "substantial".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a real thing" functions as a noun phrase used to assert the actuality or genuineness of something. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent use to emphasize that something is not imaginary or fictional, but indeed exists or is happening.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

11%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a real thing" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to emphasize the authenticity or actuality of something. Ludwig AI confirms its use across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral to informal, it's crucial to avoid overuse in formal writing, opting for more precise language when necessary. The related phrases, such as "a genuine article" or "an actual fact", offer alternative ways to convey genuineness. Understanding these nuances helps improve clarity and sophistication in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an undeniable reality

Highlights that something is impossible to dispute or refute.

a verifiable truth

This means something is confirmed as accurate through evidence.

an actual fact

Highlights that something is based on truth and can be verified.

an established fact

Highlights that something is widely accepted and proven.

a genuine article

This implies authenticity and being the real version, emphasizing lack of pretense.

a concrete reality

Underscores that something is tangible and not just a concept or idea.

a proven occurrence

This indicates an event that has been demonstrated to have happened.

a true phenomenon

Emphasizes that something is exceptional and verifiable.

a legitimate concern

This suggests a valid reason for worry or attention.

a valid point

This suggests an argument or idea that holds merit and is well-founded.

FAQs

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

You can use "a real thing" to emphasize that something is genuine, tangible, or significant. For example, "I didn't believe in ghosts, but after seeing that, I knew it was "a real thing"".

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

You can use alternatives like "an actual fact", "a genuine article", or "a concrete reality" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "a real thing"?

Yes, "a real thing" is grammatically correct and commonly used in both spoken and written English to denote something genuine or existent.

What does it mean when someone says something is "a real thing"?

When someone says something is "a real thing", they are emphasizing that it is not imaginary, fictional, or a joke, but rather something that genuinely exists or happens.