a topic like this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a topic like this" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a subject or issue that is similar to the one currently being discussed or considered. Example: "When discussing environmental issues, a topic like this often comes up in conversations about sustainability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Encyclopedias

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

With a topic like this, the audience is likely to expect you to be serious, he adds.

Science Magazine

"It's very easy to sell a topic like this to the media," Mr. Jaromin said.

The New York Times

Frida is the first person to put it into art, and make a topic like this accessible to a wider group of people".

The Guardian

"This entire article is fiction, and for the New York Times to launch a completely false, coordinated character assassination against Mr Trump on a topic like this is dangerous," said the Trump campaign in a statement.

The Guardian

"This entire article is fiction, and for the New York Times to launch a completely false, coordinated character assassination against Mr Trump on a topic like this is dangerous," senior communications adviser Jason Miller said.

The Guardian

Talking About Sensitive Issues With Children: Last year we published a guest post, 10 Ways to Talk to Students About Sensitive Issues in the News, that suggests ways to be responsive to feelings and values and promote dialogue about a topic like this one.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

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

Whoever finds the willpower to approach a topic like THAT at THIS time of day deserves respect.

Huffington Post

"So, I do think it's fun and challenging to have a topic like homophobia be in this movie and to do it correctly.

Huffington Post

So whenever I'm stumped on a topic like I was with this, I know it's because of one of two reasons: It's either a) I've missed a huge point and need to circle back to the beginning and scan for it, or b) whoever has been explaining it to me, doesn't get it themselves, either.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing “a topic like this”, ensure the preceding context has clearly established what “this” refers to, avoiding ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using “a topic like this” without a clear, immediately preceding reference. Ensure your reader understands what “this” refers to; otherwise, the phrase becomes vague and confusing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a topic like this" functions as a prepositional phrase that often acts as an adjective, modifying a noun or pronoun. It introduces an example or a specific instance to illustrate a broader category or concept, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science & Research

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a topic like this" is a grammatically sound and usable prepositional phrase that serves to connect a current discussion to a previously mentioned or understood concept. Ludwig AI’s analysis indicates that while not exceptionally frequent, it is commonly used across various contexts, especially in news and media and science and research. When using this phrase, ensure that “this” has a clear and immediate reference to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "a similar subject" or "a comparable issue" for more formal settings. Ultimately, the phrase is a practical way to link ideas and provide context in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a similar subject

Focuses on the subject matter being alike, removing the specific reference to "this".

a comparable issue

Replaces "topic" with "issue", highlighting a problem or concern with similarities.

a related matter

Substitutes "topic" with "matter", suggesting a concern that is connected or relevant.

an analogous theme

Emphasizes a parallel or corresponding theme, rather than a specific topic.

a parallel discussion

Highlights similarities in the conversation or deliberation about the subject.

a corresponding point

Focuses on the alignment of specific points or arguments within a larger subject.

an equivalent concept

Stresses the equivalence of an idea or concept, removing direct reference to the present.

a like concern

Highlights shared worries or anxieties regarding a particular matter.

a duplicate question

Focuses on whether the topic can be framed as a query that has been repeated.

a kindred subject

Emphasizes the close relationship or affinity between the topic and another subject.

FAQs

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

Use "a topic like this" to refer back to a previously mentioned subject. For example: "We've discussed climate change; "a topic like this" requires global cooperation."

What's a more formal way to say "a topic like this"?

In formal writing, consider alternatives like "a similar subject", "a comparable issue", or "a related matter" for a more professional tone.

Is it correct to say "topic like these" instead of "a topic like this"?

No, "topic like these" is grammatically incorrect. The correct usage depends on whether you are referring to one topic (use "a topic like this") or multiple topics (use "topics like these").

How does "a topic like this" differ from "this topic"?

"This topic" directly refers to the immediate subject, while ""a topic like this"" implies similarity to a known or previously discussed subject, suggesting a broader category or example.