an object that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an object that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a clause that describes or defines a specific object in a sentence. Example: "The scientist discovered an object that emitted a strange light in the night sky."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Because, by muse, I understand an object that is passive.

The Guardian - Film

I saw it as an object that could bring happiness.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Take a picture with your phone or camera of an object that you consider art, or an object that has important meaning to you right now.

The New York Times

I wanted to make an object that transmits its character to anyone who looks at it.

The New York Times

SEVERAL months ago, I received an object that looks like an oversize perfume bottle.

The New York Times - Food

It is surprising that an object that starts out so solid can release so much liquid.

The New Yorker

But a work of art is an object that gives pleasure.

The Guardian

The falla is an object that is burned & the festival during which this happens.

The New Yorker

She wanted an object that was familiar, perhaps one that her own mother had used.

The New York Times - Arts

And: "This biscuit," said a Christie's director,            "is an object that really catches the imagination".

The New Yorker

The result is an object that mimics some of a real child's moods and needs.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "object" with a more specific term (e.g., "device", "item", "artifact") to enhance clarity and precision.

Common error

Avoid using "an object that" when a more descriptive noun would provide greater clarity. For instance, instead of "an object that measures time", use "a clock".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an object that" functions as a noun phrase followed by a relative clause. The relative clause modifies the noun "object", providing additional information or defining characteristics. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

29%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an object that" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a relative clause that describes or defines a specific object. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used across various contexts, particularly in news, media, and wiki sources. While generally neutral in tone, it's important to consider whether a more specific noun might enhance clarity in your writing. Consider using alternative phrases like "a thing that" or "an item that" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a thing that

Substitutes "object" with a more general term, "thing".

an item that

Replaces "object" with "item", offering a slightly different nuance.

something which

Uses "something" instead of "an object", and "which" instead of "that".

a device that

Replaces "object" with the more specific term "device".

an artifact that

Substitutes "object" with "artifact", indicating a cultural or historical item.

a component that

Replaces "object" with the more specific term "component".

a material that

Replaces "object" with the term "material", indicating the physical composition.

an entity that

Uses "entity" for a more abstract or conceptual reference.

a concept that

Employs "concept" to refer to an abstract idea.

a creation that

Replaces "object" with "creation", implying a made or designed thing.

FAQs

How can I use "an object that" in a sentence?

Use "an object that" to introduce a relative clause that describes a specific object. For example: "The scientist discovered "an object that" emitted a strange light."

What can I say instead of "an object that"?

You can use alternatives like "a thing that", "an item that", or "something which" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "an object that" or "an object which"?

Both "an object that" and "an object which" are grammatically correct, but "that" is generally preferred in restrictive relative clauses, which are essential to the meaning of the sentence. "Which" is more common in non-restrictive clauses.

What's the difference between "an object that" and "a thing that"?

"An object that" is more specific, referring to a tangible item. "A thing that" is broader and can refer to anything, tangible or intangible.