do their thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "do their thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone or something performing their usual activities or functions, often in a casual or informal context. Example: "The musicians took the stage and began to do their thing, captivating the audience with their performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Do their thing".

The New Yorker

They do their thing; I do mine.

The New York Times

They do their thing and blend in.

The New York Times - Sports

I just let them do their thing.

The New York Times

Let them do their thing; let us do our thing".

The New York Times

"He knows actors' problems and lets them do their thing.

The New Yorker

You sit back and let the team do their thing.

The New York Times

"Therefore they just continued to do their thing".

The New York Times

They should let the mujahedeen do their thing.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Then I just let them do their thing," he said.

The New York Times - Style

"They do their thing," said one former Wild Pig.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "do their thing", consider the context to ensure it appropriately conveys the intended level of formality or informality. While versatile, it's best suited for casual or neutral settings.

Common error

Avoid using "do their thing" in formal writing, such as academic papers or business reports. Opt for more professional alternatives like "perform their duties" or "execute their responsibilities" to maintain a serious tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "do their thing" functions as an idiomatic expression, typically serving as a verbal phrase within a sentence. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is grammatically correct and implies allowing or enabling someone to proceed according to their own methods or preferences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "do their thing" is a common idiomatic phrase used to describe allowing someone to act freely or perform a task in their own way. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and its frequent usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While it is versatile, it's most suited for informal to neutral settings, and care should be taken to avoid overuse in formal writing. Consider related phrases like "act as they see fit" or "perform their role" to adapt to more formal contexts. The phrase's popularity in reputable sources underscores its acceptability and broad understanding in contemporary English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

act as they see fit

This alternative emphasizes the autonomy and freedom to act according to one's own judgment.

perform their role

Focuses on fulfilling a specific duty or function, highlighting responsibility and execution.

carry out their tasks

Highlights the execution of assigned duties or responsibilities, stressing efficiency.

operate independently

Emphasizes self-reliance and freedom from external control or supervision.

exercise their abilities

Highlights the use of skills and talents, focusing on capability and application.

follow their instincts

Suggests acting based on intuition or inherent tendencies, emphasizing natural behavior.

express themselves freely

Focuses on the uninhibited expression of thoughts, feelings, or creativity.

work without interference

Emphasizes the absence of obstruction or meddling, allowing for smooth operation.

pursue their interests

Highlights the dedication to personal passions and activities, focusing on individual preferences.

express their individuality

Focuses on unique qualities and characteristics, emphasizing personal distinction.

FAQs

What does "do their thing" mean?

The phrase "do their thing" means to allow someone to act freely or perform their role as they see fit, often in a casual or informal setting.

What can I say instead of "do their thing"?

You can use alternatives like "act as they see fit", "perform their role", or "carry out their tasks" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "do their thing" in formal writing?

While "do their thing" is widely understood, it's generally more suitable for informal or neutral contexts. In formal writing, consider using alternatives like "fulfill their responsibilities" or "execute their duties".

How can I use "do their thing" in a sentence?

You might say, "We hired the best designers and let them "do their thing"," meaning you allowed them to use their skills and creativity without interference.