are things that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are things that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a clause that describes or explains specific items or concepts. Example: "There are things that we need to consider before making a final decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

There are things that are not kosher".

Independent

Those are things that should be changed".

The New York Times

"There are things that can be moved".

The New York Times

"There are things that touch me deeply.

The New York Times

These are things that were thrown away.

The New Yorker

"These are things that occurred".

The New York Times

There are things that don't get done.

The New York Times

There certainly are things that are new.

The New York Times - Arts

Those are things that can be distractions.

The New York Times - Sports

"There are things that cannot be sold.

The Guardian - Sport

They are things that will not fade.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are things that" to clearly introduce a list or explanation of specific items or concepts. This helps to provide context and clarity for your reader.

Common error

Avoid using "are things that" in simple sentences where more direct phrasing is possible. For instance, instead of "Those are things that I like", try "I like those".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are things that" serves as a relative clause introducer, linking a general statement to specific examples or characteristics. It functions to categorize or elaborate on the preceding noun or pronoun. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

23%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are things that" is a grammatically correct and versatile phrase, serving to introduce clarifying details or examples. As Ludwig AI confirms, its broad applicability makes it a common sight across diverse writing contexts. While acceptable in most scenarios, writers should be mindful of potential redundancy in simpler sentences and opt for more concise phrasing when appropriate. Alternatives like "include aspects that" and "comprise factors that" can offer subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

constitute elements that

Emphasizes the components or parts that make up something.

represent aspects that

Highlights the different facets or angles of a subject.

comprise factors that

Focuses on the various contributing elements.

involve matters that

Suggests the inclusion of certain topics or concerns.

embody qualities that

Stresses the characteristics or features.

entail issues that

Highlights the problems or challenges involved.

reflect elements that

Indicates the presence or influence of components.

encompasses topics that

Denotes the range and breadth of a subject.

are facets that

Focuses on the different angles of the subject.

include features that

Highlights specific characteristics.

FAQs

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

Use "are things that" to introduce a clause that describes or explains specific items or concepts. For example, "There "are things that are important" to consider before making a decision".

What are some alternatives to "are things that"?

You can use alternatives such as "include aspects that", "comprise factors that", or "represent elements that" depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "are things that"?

While grammatically possible, starting a sentence directly with "are things that" is rare and can sound awkward. It's usually better to include a subject or introductory phrase before it. For example, instead of "Are things that matter", write "There "are things that matter"".

What's the difference between "are things that" and "is a thing that"?

"Are things that" is plural, used when referring to multiple items or concepts, while "is a thing that" is singular, used when referring to a single item or concept. For example, "Those "are things that are important"" versus "That "is a thing that is important"".