done thing

USAGE SUMMARY

"done thing" is a correct phrase that can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is socially acceptable or considered appropriate behavior in a particular setting or situation. Example: "It is not proper to arrive late to a job interview. Punctuality is the done thing in the professional world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

Not the done thing.

The Guardian

It was the done thing.

The Washington Post

It was just a done thing.

The Guardian

It's just not the done thing".

The Guardian - Travel

Is that the done thing?

The Guardian - Sport

It just wasn't the done thing.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

And this one-and-done thing?

The New York Times

"It was meant to be a one-and-done thing".

The New York Times - Sports

This ordinary, well-done thing beat over 90 entries to claim the overall title.

The Guardian - Arts

"Tariffs are not a one-and-done thing; it's not a switch you flip.

The New Yorker

Design thinking isn't a one-and-done thing.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing social faux pas, use "done thing" to highlight actions that deviate from expected norms, adding a touch of cultural awareness to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "done thing" in formal academic papers or technical reports where precise language is valued over colloquial expressions. Opt for more specific and formal alternatives to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "done thing" primarily functions as a noun phrase, representing a socially accepted or customary action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. Its role is to describe behaviors that align with social expectations, as evidenced by examples found in news media and lifestyle articles.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

81%

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "done thing" is a commonly used expression to describe actions considered socially acceptable or customary. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and identifies its prevalent use in news and media, alongside informal contexts like Wiki entries. While versatile, the phrase is best suited for neutral to informal registers, avoiding highly formal academic or technical writing. For those seeking alternatives, options like "accepted practice" or "proper etiquette" offer similar meanings with varying degrees of formality. Remember, using "done thing" effectively involves understanding its subtle connotations and choosing the appropriate context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the accepted practice

Emphasizes the idea of widespread approval and adherence to a particular method or action.

the conventional thing to do

Highlights adherence to established norms and traditions.

the proper etiquette

Focuses specifically on rules of polite behavior in a social context.

socially acceptable behavior

Directly addresses actions that conform to societal standards.

the norm

A concise way to refer to the standard or typical way of acting.

the custom

Highlights traditional practices within a specific group or culture.

what's usually done

Describes common or habitual actions in a given situation.

the way things are done

Focuses on established procedures and methods.

the done thing in those circles

Specifies what is deemed acceptable or fashionable within a particular social group.

the order of the day

Refers to the prevailing trend or activity at a specific time.

FAQs

How can I use "done thing" in a sentence?

You can use "done thing" to describe something that is socially acceptable or customary in a particular situation. For example: "It's not the "done thing" to wear jeans to a formal wedding."

What are some alternatives to "done thing"?

Alternatives to "done thing" include phrases like "accepted practice", "conventional thing to do", or "proper etiquette", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "done thing"?

The phrase "done thing" is most appropriate in informal or semi-formal contexts where you want to describe a social norm or expectation. It's less suitable for formal academic or business writing.

What's the difference between "done thing" and "social norm"?

"Done thing" is a more colloquial and less formal way of referring to a "social norm". While "social norm" is a broader term that encompasses all types of expected behaviors, "done thing" often refers to specific actions considered appropriate in particular social situations.