comment to that effect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "comment to that effect" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a statement or remark that conveys a particular meaning or sentiment. Example: "During the meeting, she made a comment to that effect, indicating her support for the proposal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

"I've not heard one comment" to that effect, said Robin Domeniconi, associate publisher at Real Simple.

The New York Times

Gov. George W. Bush of Texas, the front-runner for the Republican presidential nomination, had no comment yesterday, but in a television interview on Sunday he agreed with an earlier comment to that effect by Justice Thomas.

The New York Times

The trial court made a comment to that effect, but the real message is worse.

Huffington Post

One reader recently posted a comment to that effect, yearning for tips on how to lead a greener life.

Huffington Post

We briefly comment to that effect in the revised manuscript.

Biology Direct

For cases in which all combinations were not created, a comment to that effect was included in the Gene Model Comment section of the gene report.

G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"I've actually received a lot of comments to that effect," he notes.

The Guardian - Music

Thompson's recent comments to that effect which have done so much to inflame political opinion were merely reflecting that view.

The Guardian - Opinion

His published comments to that effect yesterday "disappointed" General Manager Brian Cashman, who spoke at length with Nelson before last night's game.

The New York Times - Sports

Rush Limbaugh's comments to that effect about Philadelphia quarterback Donovan McNabb last Sunday forced Limbaugh's resignation from ESPN on Wednesday.

The New York Times - Sports

It is not clear whether any wolves were really killed during the making of The Grey, or whether Neeson and Carnahan are guilty only of making glib comments to that effect.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "comment to that effect", ensure the context clearly indicates what "that effect" refers to, avoiding ambiguity for the reader. For instance, specify the previous statement or idea being echoed.

Common error

Avoid using "comment to that effect" when the intended meaning or previous statement is not immediately apparent. Instead, reiterate the specific point or use a more direct reference to ensure clarity for the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "comment to that effect" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used as an adjunct to a verb or noun. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, conveying a reference to a previous statement or sentiment. It helps to indicate that a subsequent remark aligns with or relates to a prior point.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "comment to that effect" is a prepositional phrase used to indicate that a remark aligns with a prior statement. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and usable. While not overly frequent, it appears in reputable sources across news, science, and business contexts, suggesting a neutral register. For enhanced clarity, ensure the context of "that effect" is readily apparent. If a more formal tone is needed, consider alternatives like "statement to that end". This phrase serves to connect ideas and demonstrate agreement, making it a valuable tool in both written and spoken communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remark to that extent

Substitutes "comment" with "remark" and "effect" with "extent", maintaining similar meaning while slightly altering the vocabulary.

statement to that end

Replaces "comment" with "statement" and "effect" with "end", providing a more formal alternative with the same underlying implication.

observation to that purpose

Uses "observation" instead of "comment" and "purpose" in place of "effect", suggesting a deliberate intention behind the remark.

words to that general idea

Replaces "comment" with "words" and "effect" with "general idea", broadening the scope to encompass a less precise expression of the sentiment.

a similar sentiment expressed

Emphasizes the sentiment rather than the specific form of communication, indicating that a comparable feeling was conveyed.

an analogous remark made

Highlights the similarity between the original comment and another remark, suggesting a parallel in their content.

a related point mentioned

Focuses on the connection between the initial comment and a subsequent point, indicating a thematic link.

something along those lines

Indicates an imprecise restatement of the original comment, conveying a similar but not identical meaning.

a parallel observation stated

Highlights a parallel between the initial comment and a stated observation, suggesting a mirroring of ideas.

a corresponding thought shared

Emphasizes the alignment between the initial comment and a shared thought, indicating a common understanding.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "comment to that effect" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using "statement to that end" or "remark to that extent". These alternatives provide a similar meaning but with a more elevated diction.

Is it always necessary to explicitly state what "that effect" refers to when using "comment to that effect"?

While not always required, providing clear context is crucial. If the reference is ambiguous, clarify the intended meaning to avoid confusion. You could rephrase it to, for example, "a comment supporting that conclusion".

What's the difference between "comment to that effect" and "something along those lines"?

"Comment to that effect" suggests a direct restatement or agreement with a previous point, whereas "something along those lines" indicates a more general or approximate agreement. The former is more precise, while the latter is more vague.

Can "comment to that effect" be used in negative contexts?

Yes, it can. For instance, you can say "He made a comment to that effect, denying the allegations" to indicate a statement that contradicts a previous claim.