doing something like that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "doing something like that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an action that is similar to a previously mentioned or implied action. Example: "I can't believe you would consider doing something like that; it could have serious consequences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"For a club pro, doing something like that means everything".

The New York Times

Try to imagine any other nation doing something like that.

The Guardian - Opinion

We would be supportive of doing something like that.

The New York Times

Many of the poems are doing something like that.

The Guardian - Books

"I am just really proud of him for doing something like that.

The New York Times

"If I was never introduced to golf, I would be doing something like that.

The New York Times - Sports

We'd just spent five traumatic days and I hadn't thought about doing something like that.

The Guardian

What is of interest is a terrorist hopping through or doing something like that.

The New Yorker

But it will be nice to see myself doing something like that.

The New York Times - Sports

I don't know if Jody even considered doing something like that.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

If you're doing something like that your arms, they lock.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "doing something like that", ensure the context makes it clear what "that" refers to. If the antecedent is not immediately obvious, rephrase to be more specific.

Common error

Avoid using "doing something like that" without clearly establishing what "that" refers to. Ambiguity can confuse the reader; always provide sufficient context or use a more descriptive phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "doing something like that" functions as a general reference, allowing speakers or writers to allude to a previously mentioned or understood action, event, or idea. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "doing something like that" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that serves as a general reference to an action or idea. Ludwig AI underlines its correctness and usability. While its versatility makes it common in news and media, it's essential to ensure clarity by providing sufficient context. Alternatives like "engaging in such behavior" or "performing a similar action" can add formality or specificity when needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

doing something similar

Focuses on the similarity of the action being performed.

performing such an action

Highlights the act of carrying out a particular action.

engaging in such behavior

More formal and emphasizes the conduct or actions.

taking similar steps

Emphasizes the process or stages involved in the action.

acting in a similar fashion

Highlights the manner or style in which the action is performed.

undertaking a comparable task

Focuses on the effort and work required for the action.

replicating that kind of action

Emphasizes the reproduction or duplication of a specific action.

following that pattern

Indicates adherence to a specific sequence or method.

emulating that approach

Highlights the act of imitating a particular strategy or method.

pursuing a parallel course

Suggests following a similar path or direction of action.

FAQs

How can I use "doing something like that" in a sentence?

Use "doing something like that" to refer back to a previously mentioned action or idea. For example, "I can't believe they are considering "doing something like that" after all the problems it caused before."

What's a more formal alternative to "doing something like that"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "engaging in such behavior" or "performing a similar action". These alternatives provide a more professional and precise way to express the same idea.

Is "doing something like that" always appropriate in writing?

While grammatically correct, "doing something like that" can be vague. Ensure your audience understands the reference. If clarity is crucial, opt for a more descriptive phrase.

How can I avoid being too vague when using "doing something like that"?

Provide clear context for what "that" refers to. You can also replace it with a more specific description of the action or situation you're discussing.