a topic like that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a topic like that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific subject or theme that has been previously mentioned or is understood in context. Example: "I don't think we should discuss a topic like that in a public forum."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

I'm appalled you would begin a presidential debate on a topic like that.

The New York Times

I used to ignore my teacher whenever they would bring up a topic like that.

HuffPost

And I am appalled that you would begin a presidential debate on a topic like that".

The New York Times

I am appalled that you would begin a Presidential debate on a topic like that….

The New Yorker

If this was the first conversation the listeners were ever in about a topic like that, it might work.

Harvard Business Review

"I am appalled that you would begin a presidential debate on a topic like that," a visibly outraged and angry Mr. Gingrich said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

That's the beauty of a topic like this that is growing immensely every single day.

Forbes

We get tweets from these users, and when a user chooses to follow a TV presenter or movie star, or a topic like sports, that user will receive tweets from those selected people or categories".

TechCrunch

During the 2011-12 school year, we sometimes used our daily "lesson plan" slot to announce student contests, feature guest posts, publish a list of quick ideas to address breaking news, or take on a topic, like the Common Core Standards, that affects teachers across subject areas.

The New York Times

There are only a few topics like that.

The Guardian

For example, one could examine the linguistic evolution of commentary on a topic like climate change and compare that to the baseline of the totality of Twitter to understand which words are statistically significant to climate-related conversations.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing "a topic like that", ensure that the reader or listener has sufficient prior knowledge or context to understand what you are referencing. This prevents confusion and enhances comprehension.

Common error

Avoid using "a topic like that" excessively without establishing a clear reference point. Overusing it can make your writing vague and confusing, leaving the audience unsure of what you're actually referring to.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a topic like that" functions as a referential phrase, allowing speakers and writers to allude to a previously mentioned or understood subject without explicitly restating it. Ludwig's examples show its use in various contexts, primarily media and general discussions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Wiki

31%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a topic like that" is a grammatically correct and acceptable phrase used to refer back to a subject previously mentioned or understood in context. Ludwig AI confirms this, noting its suitability for various communication contexts. While alternatives exist, such as ""a subject like that"" or ""something of that nature"", the choice depends on the specific nuance and formality desired. Keep in mind clarity and context when using the phrase to avoid ambiguity and ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a subject like that

Replaces "topic" with the synonym "subject", maintaining the same meaning.

that kind of topic

Reorders the words slightly for a more direct reference.

an issue like that

Substitutes "topic" with "issue", focusing on the problematic or debatable nature of the subject.

a matter like that

Uses "matter" instead of "topic", suggesting a situation or event under consideration.

something of that nature

Offers a more general and slightly more formal way to refer to the same kind of subject.

a point like that

Replaces topic with point, focusing on a specific idea or argument.

a theme like that

Substitutes "topic" with "theme", highlighting a recurring idea or concept.

a comparable subject

Uses "comparable" and "subject" for a slightly more formal tone.

a similar topic

Focuses on the similarity to a previously mentioned topic.

a question like that

Replaces topic with question, focusing on an inquiry or problem.

FAQs

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

You can use "a topic like that" to refer to a subject that has already been mentioned or is implied in the context. For example, "I'm not comfortable discussing "a topic like that" in public".

What are some alternatives to "a topic like that"?

Alternatives include "a subject like that", "a matter like that", or "something of that nature", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a topic like that" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a topic like that" leans towards a more informal register. In formal writing, consider using more specific language or alternatives like "the aforementioned topic" or "the subject in question".

What's the difference between "a topic like that" and "such a topic"?

"A topic like that" refers to a specific topic previously mentioned. "Such a topic" can refer to a type of topic in general, but without explicit previous mention. For example, "Such a topic is rarely discussed publicly" versus "We already discussed sensitive topics; "a topic like that" should not be brought up again".