greater thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "greater thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that is superior or more significant than another thing, often in a philosophical or motivational context. Example: "In the end, it is the pursuit of a greater thing that drives us to achieve our dreams."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

No greater thing than feedback!

Independent

Glory: a greater thing than success, but slower.

The New Yorker

"And that greater thing is?... " "The reputation of the University of Toronto," he said.

The New York Times - Magazine

"What greater thing than to see your children happy?" Tina said.

The New York Times - Sports

"Buildings are part of a much greater thing, that's what fascinates me: the totality of things.

The Guardian - Arts

"When a lesser thing joins a greater thing there's always the threat that the greater thing prevails," said one former US official, who added he was supportive of NSA's plans.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

There were greater things to contend with.

The New York Times - Arts

The women went on to greater things.

Independent

Because we aspire to greater things.

The New York Times - Books

Immunologists dream of greater things.

Forbes

I'm preparing for greater things".

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "greater thing" to emphasize that something is not just better, but of a different, more impactful nature. For instance, contributing to a cause is a "greater thing" than personal gain.

Common error

Avoid using "greater thing" in overly casual contexts where simpler alternatives like "better option" or "more important" would be more appropriate. It can sound affected or overly dramatic if misused.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "greater thing" functions as a comparative nominal phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or object. It signifies that something is of higher importance, value, or significance, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples where love, reputation, and helping others are described as "greater things".

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "greater thing" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that emphasizes the superior importance or value of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in news and media contexts, as well as philosophical discussions, and serves to highlight priorities and values. While versatile, it's best to avoid using it in overly casual settings. Consider alternatives like "more significant matter" or "higher purpose" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. By using "greater thing" judiciously, you can effectively underscore the importance of a particular concept or action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more significant matter

Emphasizes the importance or consequence of the subject at hand.

higher purpose

Focuses on having an elevated or noble aim.

superior object

Highlights the superior quality or nature of an object.

more important element

Stresses the crucial role or value of a component.

larger concern

Indicates a broader or more extensive issue.

more valuable aspect

Underscores the worth and merit of a specific facet.

grander scheme

Implies a more ambitious or comprehensive plan or design.

nobler cause

Highlights a more virtuous or morally superior endeavor.

stronger point

Highlights a more convincing or persuasive argument.

improved version

Focuses on the enhanced or upgraded state of something.

FAQs

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

You can use "greater thing" to refer to something more important, significant, or valuable than something else. For example: "Love should be a "greater thing" than the cruel war between lovers."

What are some alternatives to "greater thing"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "greater thing" include "higher purpose", "more significant matter", or "superior object".

Is it always appropriate to use the phrase "greater thing"?

While grammatically correct, "greater thing" might sound overly formal or dramatic in casual conversation. Consider the context and audience when choosing this phrase.

What does it mean when someone refers to something as a "greater thing"?

It typically means they view that something as being of higher value, importance, or impact than something else being considered. It implies a significant difference in quality or consequence.