is that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce a statement that follows it. For example: "John said he was very busy today, and is that why he couldn't come to the party?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

BURKE: What is that?

The New Yorker

How depressing is that?

The New York Times

Caroline: Why is that?

The New York Times

Now is that time.

The New York Times

So why is that?

The New York Times

What is that like?

The New York Times

Why is that astonishing?

The Economist

Who is that person?

The New York Times

Where is that, exactly?

The New Yorker

How psychotic is that?

The New Yorker

And how is that?

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is that" in a sentence, make sure the intonation in your voice appropriately reflects your intent.

Common error

While "is that" is acceptable in most contexts, avoid overusing it in highly formal writing, such as academic papers or business reports. Opt for more sophisticated or precise language where possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is that" primarily functions as an interrogative expression. It's used to seek confirmation, clarification, or express surprise regarding a statement or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is that" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to seek clarification, express surprise, or confirm information. Ludwig AI identifies its widespread use, particularly in neutral contexts such as news and media. While it’s suitable for many situations, be mindful of overuse in formal writing to maintain a professional tone. Consider alternatives like "is it the case that" or "is it possible that" for more formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Could that be?

This alternative is a question expressing doubt or uncertainty about something.

Might that be?

This alternative suggests a possibility or speculation.

Can that be true?

This alternative implies disbelief or skepticism.

Is it possible that?

This alternative is a more formal way of asking if something is feasible.

Is that correct?

This alternative seeks confirmation about the accuracy of information.

Does that follow?

This alternative questions the logical connection between ideas.

Is that so?

This alternative expresses surprise or interest in something that has been said.

Can you explain that?

This alternative requests further clarification or explanation.

What does that mean?

This alternative seeks the meaning or definition of something.

How is that the case?

This alternative inquiries for explanation of how something happens to be true.

FAQs

How can I use "is that" in a sentence?

"Is that" can be used to ask for clarification, express surprise, or seek confirmation. For example: "He said he couldn't come, "is that" true?"

What's a more formal alternative to "is that"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "is it the case that", or "is it possible that" for a more sophisticated tone.

Is it ever incorrect to use "is that"?

While generally correct, overuse of "is that" in formal writing can make your tone sound less professional. Choose more precise language when appropriate.

What does "is that so" mean and how does it differ from "is that"?

"Is that so" expresses surprise or mild skepticism, while "is that" is a more general inquiry or confirmation. For example, "He won the lottery? Is that so?" implies surprise, whereas ""is that" the reason?" seeks confirmation.