do things like that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "do things like that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to actions or behaviors that are similar to those previously mentioned or implied. Example: "I don't understand why he would do things like that, especially when he knows the consequences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If they still do things like that.

Independent

"We don't do things like that.

The Economist

Shakespeare didn't do things like that.

The New York Times

"I can't do things like that.

The New York Times - Sports

I never do things like that.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"We don't raise kids to do things like that.

The New Yorker

"I love that, and I do things like that.

The New York Times - Sports

"Devin allows you to do things like that.

The New York Times - Sports

Now I can do things like that and enjoy it.

The New York Times - Magazine

There are words for people who do things like that.

The Guardian

I'm far too old to do things like that.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "do things like that", ensure the context clearly indicates what "that" refers to. For clarity, reiterate the actions or behaviors you're referencing, especially if there's a risk of ambiguity. For example: "He often skips meetings and misses deadlines; I don't understand why he would "do things like that", especially when he knows the consequences."

Common error

Avoid using "do things like that" without providing sufficient context. If the reader isn't clear on what "that" refers to, the phrase becomes meaningless. Instead, specify the actions or behaviors you are referencing. Instead of just saying "Don't "do things like that"!", say "Don't interrupt when others are speaking!".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "do things like that" serves as a versatile placeholder, referring to specific actions, behaviors, or situations previously mentioned or easily understood within the context. Ludwig AI confirms its broad applicability across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

16%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

6%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "do things like that" is a common and generally acceptable expression used to refer to actions or behaviors that have already been mentioned or implied. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is appropriate in a wide range of contexts, particularly in news, media and informal communications. For clarity, it's crucial to ensure the context makes clear what "that" refers to and avoid vagueness. When aiming for more formal writing, consider alternatives such as "act in such a manner" or "behave in that way". By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "do things like that" and similar phrases to express your thoughts with precision and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

do something similar

This alternative broadens the scope to include a wider range of similar actions or behaviors.

do similar stuff

This alternative is more informal and uses the generic term "stuff" instead of "things".

behave in that way

This alternative focuses on the overall behavior or conduct.

act in such a manner

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the way actions are performed.

carry out similar actions

This alternative emphasizes the execution of specific actions.

engage in such activities

This alternative is slightly more formal and highlights the involvement in specific activities.

partake in those sorts of actions

This alternative suggests a more casual or collaborative participation.

resort to those measures

This alternative implies that the actions are taken as a means to an end.

commit such acts

This alternative implies that the actions are significant or possibly negative.

indulge in such practices

This alternative suggests a degree of self-indulgence or habitual behavior.

FAQs

How can I use "do things like that" in a sentence?

You can use "do things like that" to refer to previously mentioned actions or behaviors. For example: "He lied and cheated. I can't believe he would "do things like that"."

What are some alternatives to "do things like that"?

Alternatives include "behave in that way", "act in such a manner", or "do something similar" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "do things like that"?

It's appropriate when you want to refer to actions or behaviors that have already been established or are commonly understood within the conversation or text. Be careful of lack of context, use the phrase when is clear to the reader/listener what the word "that" refers to.

What's the difference between "do things like that" and "do such things"?

"Do such things" ("do such things") is a more formal alternative to "do things like that". The latter is more commonly used in informal or conversational contexts.