are something that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are something that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe or define a subject by emphasizing its characteristics or qualities. Example: "The results of the experiment are something that we need to analyze further to draw accurate conclusions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Books are something that shape our personalities.

The Guardian - Books

Digital radios are something that are pervasive in modern society.

Cornell University

They are something that happened and cannot change.

The New York Times - Sports

P.A.T.'s are something that is something automatic.

The New York Times - Sports

But stadiums are something that is not urgent.

The New York Times

DODGY statistics are something that has come to be associated with Argentina in recent years.

The Economist

I've always thought shark attacks are something that could be solved by technology.

The New York Times

BETTMAN: First of all lockouts and strikes are something that has taken place in all sports.

The New York Times

And your five minds are something that can be cultivated or learned?

Harvard Business Review

For example, breathing exercises are something that are very effective, very quickly.

Harvard Business Review

They said that appeals are something that will happen after sentencing.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "are something that" to clearly define or describe the essential characteristics of a subject. Ensure the description adds meaningful information and avoids stating the obvious.

Common error

Avoid stringing together multiple clauses using "are something that". Break down overly complex sentences for better clarity and readability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are something that" functions as a linking verb phrase introducing a predicate nominative or adjective. It's used to define, describe, or characterize a subject by attributing a specific quality or role to it, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are something that" is a versatile linguistic tool used to define or describe a subject by attributing specific qualities or characteristics. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used across various contexts. It appears most frequently in news and media, followed by science and formal business settings. While the phrase is considered correct and common, it's essential to avoid overuse and ensure clarity. Consider alternatives like "constitute", "represent", or "embody" for variety and precision in your writing. Using "are something that" effectively contributes to clear and informative communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are essentially something that

Highlights the fundamental nature or core quality.

are defined as something that

Specifically offers a formal or technical definition.

are characterized by something that

Highlights distinctive features or attributes.

constitute something that

Uses a more formal verb to indicate composition or creation.

can be considered something that

Introduces a level of subjectivity or opinion.

represent something that

Focuses on symbolizing or standing for something else.

function as something that

Emphasizes the role or purpose served.

serve as something that

Focuses on providing a benefit or fulfilling a need.

act as something that

Similar to 'function as', but may imply a temporary or less formal role.

embody something that

Implies being a tangible or clear example of something.

FAQs

How can I use "are something that" in a sentence?

The phrase "are something that" is used to define or describe a quality or characteristic. For example, "Books "are something that" shape our personalities."

What phrases can I use instead of "are something that"?

You can use alternatives like "constitute something that", "represent something that", or "embody something that" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "are things that" or "are something that"?

Both "are things that" and "are something that" are grammatically correct, but "are something that" is generally used when referring to a singular, abstract concept or quality, while "are things that" refers to multiple items. For example, "Kindness "are something that" is important" versus "cats "are things that" people like."

In what contexts is "are something that" most appropriate?

The phrase "are something that" is suitable in various contexts, including formal writing, news articles, and academic papers. However, avoid overuse and consider simpler alternatives where possible.