a system like that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a system like that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a specific type of system that has been previously mentioned or is understood in context. Example: "If we implement a system like that, we could improve our efficiency significantly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

You can't have a system like that.

The New York Times

"It takes months and months to fine-tune a system like that.

The New Yorker

In theory, a system like that could be built on top of Bitcoin.

MIT Technology Review

"It's under consideration, but it's hard to say if the consumer desire for a system like that will be there".

The New York Times

But there were witkarren on the streets for 10 years, and we proved that a system like that could function".

The Guardian

A system like that on roads used by the sniper could allow a computer to sort through the license plates quickly and help the police narrow the search, said Dr. Lawrence W. Sherman, director of the Jerry Lee Center of Criminology at the University of Pennsylvania.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

Now, typically in a system like that which implements discreet-time processing of continuous-time time signals we need to ensure in one way or another that the bandwidth of the input is sufficiently limited, so that we avoid aliasing.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

In fact, that's a feature of a system like ours that allows an extreme faction to hold it hostage.

Huffington Post

Such free-thinking individualists of course find Mohler's words ridiculous, perhaps stating "how can a system like yoga, that makes me feel so good, be bad".

Huffington Post

But with a sound system like that and promising future bookings, it's hard to not see Flash Factory becoming a staple in the New York City clubbing scene.

Vice

That's still a small sample, but this is the first time researchers have managed to create a system like this that works in a clinically relevant setting.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a system like that" when you want to refer back to a specific system that has already been described or is understood in the conversation or text. This ensures clarity and avoids unnecessary repetition.

Common error

Avoid using "a system like that" without a clear reference point. Ensure the reader or listener knows exactly what system you're referring to, or the phrase becomes meaningless.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a system like that" functions as a referential phrase, pointing back to a previously mentioned or understood system. It allows for concise communication by avoiding repetition of the system's details. Ludwig provides numerous examples of this usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a system like that" is a versatile phrase used to refer back to a previously mentioned or understood system. Ludwig's AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage in various contexts, particularly in news, science, and business. When using this phrase, ensure that the reference is clear to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives include "such a system" or "a similar system", depending on the desired level of formality. By providing clear context and understanding the nuances of its use, you can effectively incorporate "a system like that" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a similar system

More concise and direct, focusing on the similarity without the demonstrative pronoun.

such a system

Emphasizes the system previously mentioned or understood in context.

a comparable system

Highlights the system's ability to be compared to another.

a parallel system

Suggests a system that runs alongside or mirrors another.

an analogous system

Implies a system that shares similar characteristics or functions.

a like system

A less common, more direct way of expressing similarity.

a related system

Broader term indicating some form of connection or association.

a corresponding system

Suggests a system that directly matches or correlates with another.

a matching system

Indicates a system that is identical or perfectly aligned.

a system of that kind

More verbose, emphasizing the kind or nature of the system.

FAQs

How can I use "a system like that" in a sentence?

You can use "a system like that" to refer to a previously mentioned system. For example, "They implemented a new tracking system. If we adopt "a system like that", we could improve our efficiency."

What is a more formal alternative to "a system like that"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases such as "such a system" or "a similar system". These alternatives provide a more polished and professional tone.

Is it okay to start a sentence with "a system like that"?

While grammatically correct, starting a sentence with "a system like that" might sound less formal. If you're aiming for a more formal tone, consider rephrasing to provide a clearer connection to the previous context.

What's the difference between "a system like that" and "a system like this"?

"A system like that" refers to a system that was previously mentioned or is understood to be distant from the speaker. On the other hand, "a system like this" typically refers to a system that is present or being demonstrated.