anyone like that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "anyone like that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a person or group of people who share a specific characteristic or behavior. Example: "I wonder if anyone like that would be interested in joining our discussion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

They pity me, because they've seen little bits of my act and to them it's all mumbling: "Why would anyone like that?" So that's one reason: to provide for children.

The Guardian

I've never actually met anyone like that.

The New York Times - Magazine

I've never played for anyone like that.

The New York Times - Sports

We don't have anyone like that.

The Guardian

He asked if I knew anyone like that.

The New Yorker

I could never go to anyone like that.

The New York Times - Magazine

The guys on my team have never been asked to approach anyone like that.

The Guardian

The fundamental dishonesty of Ivanka Trump's book is clearest in the fact that she never acknowledges the difficulty of knowing, or being governed by, anyone like that.

The New Yorker

I despise shows that present friendship where you're always there for each other and really strong because I don't know anyone like that.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

"While I like the idea of a young designer taking over at Dior, in reality I would never recommend anyone [like that] for such a position," she said.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I'm writing notes on the inside cover of How To Instantly Connect With Anyone like that razor blade in Italian is lametta and I stop eating.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "anyone like that", ensure the context makes clear what "that" refers to. Avoid ambiguity by providing a clear antecedent or description of the qualities or characteristics being referenced.

Common error

Avoid using "anyone like that" without clearly defining what "like that" means in the context. This can lead to confusion if the reader doesn't understand the specific traits or behaviors you're referring to.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "anyone like that" functions as a pronoun phrase, serving as a general reference to an unspecified person sharing particular characteristics or behaviors that are relevant to the context. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable. The examples show the variety of ways people use this phrase, both in spoken and written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Wiki

11%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "anyone like that" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, serving as a pronoun phrase to refer to people with specific characteristics. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct. Its usage spans various contexts, particularly in news and media, with a neutral register. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity in what "that" refers to, preventing any ambiguity. Related alternatives include "someone similar" or "people of that nature", offering variations in formality and specificity. The expression effectively categorizes people and can convey a range of emotions or perspectives, from surprise to disapproval.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

someone of that ilk

Replaces "anyone" with "someone" and uses the more formal word "ilk" to refer to a type or category.

people of that nature

Replaces "anyone" with "people" and uses "nature" to refer to the person's characteristics or behavior.

individuals of that kind

Uses more formal synonyms "individuals" and "kind" for "anyone" and "like that", making it sound more official.

any person of that description

Employs a formal tone using "any person" and "description" instead of simpler terms.

someone fitting that profile

Replaces "like that" with "fitting that profile", suggesting a set of specific characteristics are being matched.

a person of similar characteristics

More explicitly describes the comparison as being based on shared characteristics.

anyone resembling that

Focuses on a resemblance or similarity, which may not be exact but close enough.

someone comparable in that way

Highlights the aspect of comparability or being similar in a particular way.

anyone mirroring those traits

Suggests a direct reflection or imitation of the qualities or characteristics being discussed.

a person sharing those attributes

Focuses on shared attributes or qualities, implying a connection or similarity.

FAQs

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

You can use "anyone like that" to refer to a person or group of people who share a specific characteristic or behavior. For example, "I've never met "anyone like that" before."

What can I say instead of "anyone like that"?

Alternatives include "someone similar", "anyone of that kind", or "people of that nature", depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to use "anyone like that"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. It functions as a general reference to a person possessing particular qualities or traits.

What's the difference between "anyone like that" and "someone like that"?

"Anyone like that" is more general and inclusive, while "someone like that" implies a specific individual, although not necessarily identified. Both phrases are grammatically sound and often interchangeable.