doing something important

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "doing something important" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe the action or activity of someone engaged in a significant or essential task. Example: "Jane spent the day doing something important for her community, volunteering at the local homeless shelter." In this sentence, "doing something important" describes the action of volunteering, which is seen as a valuable and necessary task.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Look, I'm doing something important!

The New York Times

It means you're doing something important.

The Guardian - Sport

It feels like you're doing something important".

The New York Times

I think we are doing something important".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"I feel like I'm doing something important".

The New York Times - Sports

I conflated doing something unpopular with doing something important.

The New Yorker

"Everyone here feels that they're doing something important".

The New York Times

It was that they were doing something important.

The Guardian

"We believed we were doing something important – sometimes we succeeded, sometimes not.

Independent

"I think you're doing something important, especially for the young people".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

I wanna do something important..

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "doing something important", ensure the context clearly defines why the action is considered important. Specificity adds credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "doing something important" without providing context. Readers need to understand the significance of the action. Instead of saying "She is doing something important", specify the action and its impact: "She is volunteering at the hospital, providing comfort to patients"

Linguistic Context

The phrase "doing something important" functions as a verbal phrase acting as a gerund phrase. This phrase generally serves as a noun, describing an action that holds significance or value, Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

21%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Reference

7%

Social Media

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "doing something important" is a versatile and frequently used phrase to convey the value of an action. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable, especially in News & Media and Scientific contexts. To enhance clarity, specify why the action is important within the context. Consider alternatives like "undertaking significant work" or "making a meaningful contribution" for nuanced expressions. Always aim for precision when using the phrase to maximize its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

making a noteworthy impact

Focuses on the remarkable effect of the action.

making a meaningful contribution

Highlights the impact of the action, focusing on its positive effect.

accomplishing something substantial

Emphasizes the significant outcome or achievement resulting from the action.

performing a crucial task

Focuses on the essential nature of the task and its role in achieving a goal.

contributing in a valuable way

Highlights the beneficial aspect of the contribution.

undertaking significant work

Focuses on the act of starting and engaging in work that has importance.

carrying out a significant role

Highlights the importance of the position or function being performed.

pursuing a critical endeavor

Emphasizes the importance and urgency of the undertaking.

engaging in vital activity

Emphasizes the necessity and importance of the activity being performed.

fulfilling a significant duty

Highlights the obligation and importance of the task.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "doing something important" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "undertaking significant work", "performing a crucial task", or "making a meaningful contribution". These phrases emphasize the seriousness and impact of the action.

What verbs collocate well with "something important"?

Common verbs used with "something important" include "do", "achieve", "contribute", "accomplish", and "pursue". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to specify the action instead of saying "doing something important"?

Yes, it's often better to be specific. Instead of "He's doing something important", try "He's developing a new cancer treatment". Specificity makes your writing clearer and more impactful.

How does "doing something significant" differ from "doing something important"?

"Doing something significant" emphasizes the noteworthiness or impact of the action. While "doing something important" simply highlights its value or necessity. The best option depends on the context and what you want to emphasize.