a relevant thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a relevant thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an item or concept that is pertinent or applicable to a particular context or discussion. Example: "In our discussion about climate change, it's important to consider a relevant thing like renewable energy sources."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

[Page A22.] Mr. Lieberman said, "I think ideology is a relevant thing".

The New York Times

"The past is obviously there and it is a relevant thing and it's something that influences the way that we do things," Mr. Benetti said in an interview.

The New York Times

It connects to "Paperman" because I'm trying to hang onto the good stuff that digital gives you but also bring in the expressive line of an artist's hand, which I still think even in 2013 is a relevant thing.

The New York Times

And watching video, posting video, sharing video on the internet actually became a relevant thing?

TechCrunch

It seemed a relevant thing to ask.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

And that is a massively relevant thing in today's market, the idea that to get Shabby Chic in your home you don't have to buy a lot of things".

The New York Times

(b) All relevant things (such as laws of nature and human nature) do not change [21].

European Journal of Futures Research

These are all relevant things, that the door remains closed, that you know, you need to tell people that no one should come in unless absolutely necessary [N01].

BMC Health Services Research

Team members also try to minimise distractions: These are all relevant things, that the door remains closed, that you know, you need to tell people that no one should come in unless absolutely necessary [N01].

BMC Health Services Research

I'm at a stage where most people have not seen me at work and so this feels like a very intimate and relevant thing to do".

The Guardian

One way is to say something weaker than some other relevant thing you are in a position to say.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a relevant thing" when you want to emphasize the pertinence of an idea, factor, or object to the current context. It is most effective when the relevance might not be immediately obvious.

Common error

Avoid using "a relevant thing" as a filler phrase. Ensure that you clearly specify what the 'thing' is and why it's relevant to provide clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a relevant thing" functions as a noun phrase that identifies something pertinent or applicable within a particular context. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in various scenarios, emphasizing the connection between the identified item and the topic at hand.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a relevant thing" is a noun phrase used to emphasize the pertinence or applicability of something within a specific context. As indicated by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and serves to focus attention on what matters most. While not overly common, its usage is consistent across neutral and professional registers, particularly in News & Media and Science contexts. For alternative expressions, consider "an important consideration" or "a pertinent point".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an important consideration

Emphasizes the significance and necessity of considering something.

a pertinent point

Highlights the direct relevance and applicability of a specific point.

a significant aspect

Focuses on the importance and noteworthiness of a particular facet.

a crucial element

Underscores the essential and indispensable nature of an element.

a key factor

Identifies something as a major influence or determinant.

a vital component

Stresses the necessity and importance of a component.

a noteworthy item

Highlights something as deserving attention.

a considerable matter

Indicates that something is worthy of serious thought.

a material detail

Emphasizes the factual importance and impact of a detail.

a consequential issue

Highlights that the issue has important consequences.

FAQs

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

You can use "a relevant thing" to highlight the importance of a detail or aspect. For instance, "Considering the budget constraints, the cost is "a relevant thing" to consider."

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

Alternatives include "an important consideration", "a pertinent point", or "a significant aspect", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a relevant thing" in writing?

Use "a relevant thing" when you want to draw attention to a specific factor or element that directly impacts the subject being discussed. It's best used when the relevance needs emphasis.

What's the difference between "a relevant thing" and "an important thing"?

"A relevant thing" emphasizes the direct connection to the current context, while "an important thing" simply denotes significance. Relevance implies a contextual relationship that importance might lack.