a tangible item

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a tangible item" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a physical object that can be touched or perceived through the senses. Example: "In our inventory, we have a variety of products, including a tangible item that customers can hold and examine before purchasing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Newspapers such as The Economist still print and distribute a tangible item.

The Economist

There is also an alternative to the Alternative Gift Market, for those who need to buy a tangible item for a family member or friend.

The New York Times

Goldman's trading system, he argued, was built for internal use and was not a tangible item of property distributed and used by the commercial public.

The New York Times

A notice on the site reads: "Any metaphysical service that promises or suggests it will effect a physical change (e.g., weight loss) or other outcome (e.g., love, revenge) is not allowed, even if it delivers a tangible item".

Independent

First Presbyterian Church, Oct. 6 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 7 at 3 p.m., lafollia.org HOUSTON Short Stories Smart, independently run blogs and Web sites have their place, but some readers still value having a tangible item to read and keep, a desire that has sparked a renaissance of zines.

The New York Times

Each is pegged on a tangible item, such as the two topaz crosses which her naval brother Charles brought home from the Mediterranean for his sisters (like the amber one William Price brings Fanny from Sicily in Mansfield Park), or on a force in her life, such as sisters or marriage banns.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

According to Barthes (1983), three diverse structures exist for a fashion item technical (the tangible item), iconic (photograph, picture, or image of the item), and verbal (written or voiced description of the item).

Fashion and Textiles

"The fact that participants were willing to substitute part of a tangible food item for the mere prospect of a relatively small monetary premium is intriguing," he said.

Independent

It isn't about the tangible item itself, but all about the effort and, as it seems in this case, the sacrifice made to show affection to the newlyweds.

The New York Times

The tragedy that was 9/11 joined with rising protectionism, regulation and a war on terror to make undefined paper currencies less attractive relative to tangible items in an uncertain world.

Forbes

Now, obviously, I am an adult and can purchase tangible items, so forget about the traditional gifts.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing the importance of physical evidence, use "a tangible item" to clearly differentiate it from abstract or digital forms of evidence.

Common error

Avoid using "a tangible item" when you actually mean an intangible benefit. For example, instead of saying "The training provided a tangible item for their career", say "The training provided a "valuable skill" for their career" or a "significant advantage".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a tangible item" functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a tangible item" is a grammatically sound and understandable term used to describe physical objects, setting them apart from abstract ideas or digital goods. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides several examples from credible sources. While not extremely common, its usage is consistent across various contexts, including News & Media and Science. When using "a tangible item", ensure it accurately reflects a physical object and avoid confusing it with intangible benefits or assets.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a physical object

Replaces 'item' with 'object' emphasizing the physical nature.

a concrete thing

Uses 'concrete' instead of 'tangible', highlighting the real and perceptible nature.

a material possession

Focuses on the aspect of ownership and physical presence.

a touchable object

Emphasizes the ability to be touched as a key characteristic.

a real article

Highlights the genuineness and physicality of the item.

a palpable thing

Substitutes 'tangible' with 'palpable', stressing the ease of perception.

a solid object

Stresses the substantial and non-abstract nature of the item.

a perceptible object

Highlights the ability to be perceived through the senses.

a substantial object

Emphasizes the significant or considerable nature of the item.

a measurable entity

Focuses on the ability to quantify or measure the item.

FAQs

How can I use "a tangible item" in a sentence?

Use "a tangible item" when referring to something that can be touched or perceived through the senses. For example: "The company provides employees with "a tangible item" as a token of appreciation".

What's a good substitute for "a tangible item"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a physical object", "a concrete item", or "a material possession".

Is it better to offer a tangible reward or an intangible one?

The choice depends on the situation. While ""a tangible item"" provides immediate satisfaction, intangible rewards like recognition or opportunities for growth can foster long-term motivation.

What is the difference between a tangible and an intangible asset?

A tangible asset is a physical item, like equipment or property, while an intangible asset is non-physical, such as a patent or brand reputation.