it has a kind of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it has a kind of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that possesses a certain quality or characteristic, often in a vague or non-specific manner. Example: "The painting has a kind of ethereal beauty that captivates the viewer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It has a kind of festive atmosphere".

The New York Times

It has a kind of primal forcefulness.

Independent

And it has a kind of vigour.

The Guardian - Arts

It has a kind of volcanic intensity.

The Guardian

It has a kind of nonchalant insouciance.

The Guardian - Arts

It has a kind of brute, martial vigour.

Independent

It has a kind of silent evolution in the imagination.

The New York Times - Arts

"It has a kind of teeming silence," she says.

The New York Times

It has a kind of effortless quality to it.

The New Yorker

Read as a document in Cold War history, it has a kind of non-interventionist ring.

The New Yorker

"It has a kind of bright vulgarity in terms of colour".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it has a kind of" to introduce a quality or characteristic that is not easily defined or quantified. This phrase works well when you want to describe something without being overly precise.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on phrases like "it has a kind of" when more specific descriptors would provide clarity. Replace it with a more precise adjective or descriptive phrase where possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it has a kind of" functions as a qualifier, introducing a description of a noun where the characteristic being described is not precise or easily defined. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Academia

17%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

HuffPost

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it has a kind of" is a versatile and commonly used expression for describing qualities or characteristics that are somewhat indefinite or subjective. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct and well-accepted. It functions as a qualifier, allowing for nuanced observations across various contexts. While precise language is always preferred, this phrase serves as a useful tool when specific descriptors are lacking or less appropriate. The phrase finds frequent application in news and media as well as academic writing, reflecting its adaptability in both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it possesses a certain quality

Replaces "kind of" with "certain", indicating a specific but perhaps undefined quality.

it exhibits a degree of

Uses "degree of" to suggest a measurable amount of a particular characteristic.

it displays an element of

Emphasizes that only an element, not the entirety, possesses the quality.

it shows a hint of

Indicates a subtle or faint presence of a particular quality.

it suggests a touch of

Similar to "hint of", but may imply a deliberate addition of the quality.

it features a semblance of

Implies an outward appearance that may not be entirely genuine.

it embodies a trace of

Suggests a small amount of a quality that remains from something earlier.

it reflects a shade of

Uses "shade" to describe a nuanced or subtle variation of a quality.

it gives off an impression of

Focuses on the overall effect it produces, rather than a specific attribute.

it evokes a sense of

Similar to "gives off an impression", but stresses an emotional or sensory response.

FAQs

How can I use "it has a kind of" in a sentence?

You can use "it has a kind of" to describe a quality that is somewhat vague or difficult to define precisely. For example, "The music "it has a kind of" ethereal quality."

What are some alternatives to "it has a kind of"?

Alternatives include "it possesses a certain quality", "it exhibits a degree of", or "it displays an element of" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to be specific instead of using "it has a kind of"?

While "it has a kind of" is acceptable, using more specific language will often enhance clarity and precision in your writing. Consider if a more descriptive adjective would better serve your purpose.

What's the difference between "it has a kind of" and "it has a sort of"?

The phrases "it has a kind of" and "it has a sort of" are largely interchangeable, both indicating a somewhat indefinite quality. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference or stylistic flow.