at this thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at this thing" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is often used to refer to a specific event, action, or object that is being discussed or observed. Example: "Lisa was surprised when she saw John's reaction at this thing." (referring to a specific event or situation) "I can't believe how good she is at this thing!" (referring to a specific skill or activity).

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

We'll try to get a look at this thing up close at CES this week.

TechCrunch

You can legitimately go at this thing".

The New York Times - Sports

Seriously, look at this thing.

The Guardian - Sport

"We'll make a run at this thing".

The New York Times - Sports

Please look at this thing in a more objective manner".

The New York Times

LIZADONNELLY: Who is represnting us at this thing?

The New Yorker

I don't think anybody makes money at this thing.

The New York Times

I ended up staring at this thing for two hours.

The Guardian

CARAMANICA: Little known fact: Paul McCartney doesn't even get a seat at this thing!

The New York Times

They asked me to introduce Al at this thing, so I've got this little speech..."...

The New Yorker

Hope we all can just stay healthy and make a good run at this thing".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at this thing" when referring to a specific event, object, or activity in a casual or conversational context. It works well when the specific referent is already understood by both the speaker and the audience.

Common error

Avoid using "at this thing" in formal or academic writing, as it can sound vague and unprofessional. Instead, opt for more precise language that clearly identifies the subject you are discussing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at this thing" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun to indicate location, direction, or association. According to Ludwig AI, it refers to a specific event, action, or object, which aligns with examples where it describes participation or observation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at this thing" is a grammatically sound prepositional phrase, commonly employed in informal contexts to refer to a specific event, object, or situation already understood by the speaker and listener. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and typical usage. While prevalent in news and media, it is generally advisable to avoid "at this thing" in formal writing and academic settings, opting instead for more precise and descriptive alternatives such as "regarding this matter" or "in relation to this event". The phrase serves a communicative purpose of referencing something implicitly known, promoting brevity in conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

about this situation

Emphasizes the circumstances or state of affairs.

regarding this matter

More formal and specific, focusing on a defined subject.

in relation to this event

Specifically refers to an occurrence or happening.

regarding this subject

Similar to "regarding this matter", but can apply to broader topics.

concerning this item

Replaces "thing" with a more concrete noun, implying a physical object.

in reference to this object

Highlights a particular item being discussed.

pertaining to this issue

Implies a problem or point of contention.

concerning this point

Focuses on a specific detail or argument.

with respect to this aspect

Highlights a particular facet or angle.

in connection with this affair

Suggests a delicate or controversial matter.

FAQs

How can I use "at this thing" in a sentence?

You can use "at this thing" to refer to a specific event, object, or activity already known to the speaker and listener. For example, "They asked me to introduce Al "at this thing", so I've got this little speech..."

What's a more formal alternative to "at this thing"?

For more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "regarding this matter", "concerning this item", or "in relation to this event". These alternatives provide a more specific and professional tone.

Is "at this thing" grammatically correct?

Yes, "at this thing" is grammatically correct and commonly used in informal and conversational English. However, its appropriateness depends on the context.

When should I avoid using "at this thing"?

Avoid using "at this thing" in formal writing, academic papers, or professional communications. In these contexts, more precise and descriptive language is generally preferred.