a thing lies

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a thing lies" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the existence or state of an object or concept, often in a philosophical or metaphorical context. Example: "In the heart of the forest, a thing lies hidden, waiting to be discovered."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

In the book as in life, the significance of a thing lies not in the thing itself, and not even in our immediate experience of the thing, but in our memories of it and in all we come to associate with it.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

'That's a rain cape from Papua New Guinea,' says Clark, matter of factly, as if it is perfectly normal to have such a thing lying around at home.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Genocide, mass killing and lying and lying — that's a thing that lies heavy on the heart.

The New York Times

His tan-colored cat, a skinny thing lying in a strip of sun that streamed down on the verdant grass, was unaware of the deep red chicken pecking at bugs near its head.

Huffington Post

It's a machine that the boy put most of his life into, a machine that has the heart of a much older thing, a thing that lay blinking and frantic in a Stanford computer lab somewhere and then, over time, shrank down to something you and I can fit into our pockets.

TechCrunch

There is such a thing as lying by omission sometimes you need to say something for the sake of clearing the air where leaving it unsaid would lead him to think the wrong things.

WikiHow

Harley Spiller has a few things lying around his one-bedroom apartment on the Upper East Side, among them 8,000 decals with graffiti, 120 unusual neckties, hundreds of magnets, 500 marbles, 150 handbills for fortune tellers, 500 packs of chewing gum, 46 yarmulkes and 6,000 keys.

The New York Times

All that is beautiful and pleasant in things lies in this second kind of object.

City, Territory and Architecture

Needless to say, Ekman knows a thing or two about lies.

Huffington Post

Like its podcast progenitor, "Comedy Bang! Bang!" (I'll have a feature on the show timed to the premiere), is a thing of truth and lies.

Los Angeles Times

By Russell Maloney The New Yorker, January 23 , 1937P. 19 How to compose a book out of things lying about in an apartment.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a thing lies", ensure that the context clearly indicates what "thing" refers to. This phrase is often used in philosophical or metaphorical contexts, so clarity is crucial.

Common error

Avoid using "a thing lies" in contexts where a more concrete and specific description is possible. Overusing abstract language can make your writing vague and difficult to understand.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a thing lies" primarily functions as a statement of existence or location. It suggests that something, whether tangible or intangible, is situated in a particular state or place. This is supported by Ludwig, which identifies its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a thing lies" is grammatically correct and commonly used to indicate the existence or placement of something, be it tangible or abstract. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While versatile, it often appears in philosophical, literary, or analytical contexts, lending itself to neutral and formal registers. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity and avoid overuse to maintain the precision and impact of your writing. Alternatives such as "something rests" or "a matter exists" may be suitable depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

something rests

Replaces "thing" with "something" and uses the verb "rests" instead of "lies", altering the tone slightly.

something is situated

Uses a more formal and descriptive verb phrase to indicate location.

something resides

Implies a more permanent or inherent presence.

a matter exists

Shifts the focus to the existence of a matter or issue rather than a physical object.

a concept exists

Focuses on the presence of an idea or concept.

a problem persists

Specifically indicates the continued presence of a problem.

an item is located

More specific to physical location of an item.

an issue remains

Highlights the ongoing nature of an issue.

a secret is hidden

Specifically refers to a hidden secret, adding a layer of intrigue.

the truth remains

Emphasizes the enduring nature of the truth.

FAQs

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

Use "a thing lies" to describe the state or existence of an object or concept, often in a metaphorical or philosophical sense. For instance, "In the realm of possibilities, "a thing lies" hidden, waiting to be discovered".

What phrases are similar to "a thing lies"?

Alternatives include "something rests", "something is situated", or "a matter exists", depending on the context.

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

Yes, "a thing lies" is grammatically correct. It follows standard English grammar rules and is usable in written English.

In what kind of writing is "a thing lies" most appropriate?

This phrase is often found in literature, philosophical discussions, or contexts where abstract concepts are being explored. It can be used in news and media as well, particularly in opinion pieces or analyses.