a structure that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a structure that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a specific type of structure or to introduce a clause that provides more information about the structure in question. Example: "The architect designed a structure that would withstand earthquakes and high winds."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"This a structure that forms itself," Mr. Fink said.

The New York Times

Pile up 10 and it's a structure that looms impressively.

The Guardian - Tech

It's a structure that invites development — one that never arrives.

The New Yorker

A structure that was not obvious to read".

The Guardian - Business

Creating a structure that makes the board accountable to members.

The Guardian - Business

"Students need a structure that will help them make progress".

The New York Times

The central image is an electrical tower, a structure that generates energy but also, potentially, radiation.

The New York Times - Arts

But it's the exact opposite of a structure that is trying to mimic natural form.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It is better, she said, to create a structure that mobilizes people through discussion and consultation.

The New York Times

This time, "sorting" should mean a structure that gives BHS -pensioners proper confidence.

The Guardian - Business

The result is a structure that looks like something from a sci-fi movie.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a structure that", ensure the following clause clearly and specifically defines or describes the structure's purpose, function, or characteristics.

Common error

Avoid using overly general descriptions after "a structure that". Be specific about what the structure does or what its key features are to provide clarity for the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a structure that" functions as a relative clause introducer. It connects a noun phrase ("a structure") to a relative clause that modifies and provides additional information about it. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a structure that" serves as a versatile phrase used to introduce relative clauses that describe or define various kinds of structures. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and frequently encountered across diverse sources. While its register is generally neutral, it appears most often in news and media contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by providing specific and detailed descriptions of the structure's attributes or functions. Remember to use it in cases of general structure types, while reserving "the structure that" for specific ones already mentioned.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a system that

Focuses on the systemic aspect rather than the physical or conceptual structure.

a framework that

Highlights the supporting or foundational aspect of the structure.

a mechanism that

Emphasizes the functional or operational aspect of the structure.

a design that

Focuses on the intentional planning and arrangement of the structure.

a model that

Highlights the representative or simplified nature of the structure.

an organization that

Highlights a system with different parts working together.

an architecture that

Focuses on the art or science of building.

a configuration that

Focuses on the arrangement of elements within the structure.

a setup that

Highlights the practical arrangement or preparation of the structure.

an entity that

Emphasizes the existence and distinctness of the structure.

FAQs

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

Use "a structure that" to introduce a relative clause that describes or defines a particular structure. For example, "The building is "a structure that" was designed to withstand earthquakes".

What are some alternatives to "a structure that"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a system that", "a framework that", or "a design that" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it better to use "a structure that" or "the structure that"?

Use "a structure that" when introducing a general type of structure. Use "the structure that" when referring to a specific, already mentioned structure.

What's the difference between "a structure that" and "a structure which"?

"A structure that" and "a structure which" are often interchangeable, but "that" is generally preferred in restrictive clauses that are essential to the meaning of the sentence. "Which" is more common in non-restrictive clauses that add extra information.