it has life

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it has life" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that possesses vitality, energy, or existence, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The painting is so vibrant and full of color that it feels like it has life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

It has life and air.

The New York Times

Anti-Americanism, though of course it has life as a muttered feeling, has almost no life as an idea or an argument.

The New Yorker

Anything he desires further than this he seeks as a necessity, and not for himself but for a subordinate, for the body bound to him, to which since it has life he must minister the needs of life, not needs, however, to the true man of this degree.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Bloomberg: There are so many facets to climate change that make it difficult to address – but when an issue is important – and when it has life or death consequences – you don't give up just because it's difficult.

Forbes

Earth is a really complicated place - it has water, plate tectonics, volcanoes, and more importantly, it has life.

Huffington Post

"What the fuck are you doing with this," he barks, "this is ANIMAL it has LIFE," and I run off and get in a passing taxi.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

It's a decision we make about our lives and, because of that it has life-changing consequences.

Independent

Figuring out what you really want (and why) in specific, realistic terms and making a list of commitments you plan to pursue for the next year or years is daunting, to say the least, but it has life-changing possibilities.

Forbes

It had life.

The New York Times

The performance was rare, but beyond that, it had life.

The New York Times - Arts

He showed a good curveball; his fastball seemed like it had life on it.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it has life" to describe abstract concepts or inanimate objects that possess a sense of energy, vitality, or dynamic presence. For instance, you might say, "The city's art scene is thriving; it has life."

Common error

Avoid using "it has life" when simply stating that a living organism is alive. The phrase is more effective when used metaphorically or to describe something non-living that exhibits lively qualities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it has life" typically functions as a predicate, attributing a quality of vitality or existence to a subject. As shown by Ludwig, this can be literal, referring to living organisms, or more often metaphorical, describing non-living entities with lively characteristics. It indicates a dynamic presence or energy.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Academia

29%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it has life" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression, primarily found in news and academic contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides examples showcasing its versatility in describing both literal and metaphorical vitality. When writing, use "it has life" to imbue descriptions with energy and dynamism, but be mindful of overuse in strictly literal contexts. For more formal settings, consider substituting with synonyms like "possesses vitality". Overall, this phrase effectively communicates that something is not just present but actively vibrant.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is alive

Expresses the idea of being living, moving from an abstract property to a concrete one.

it possesses vitality

Replaces "life" with a more formal synonym, emphasizing energy and vigor.

it is full of life

Emphasizes abundance of vitality, suggesting something is vibrant and energetic.

it pulsates with energy

Focuses on the dynamic and active quality of something, highlighting its liveliness.

it has a pulse

Implies a rhythmic vitality or ongoing activity.

it resonates with spirit

Highlights the emotional and soulful quality, suggesting a deep and meaningful existence.

it embodies essence

Focuses on the fundamental nature and intrinsic qualities.

it reflects existence

Emphasizes that it shows that something exists or lives.

it displays vibrancy

Showcases the liveliness or energy that it possesses.

it exudes animation

Highlights the animated quality of being full of energy and enthusiasm.

FAQs

What does it mean when something "has life"?

When something "has life", it means that it possesses vitality, energy, or a dynamic quality. It can be used both literally, to describe living organisms, and metaphorically, to describe inanimate objects or abstract concepts that exhibit lively characteristics.

How can I use "it has life" in a sentence?

You can use "it has life" to describe something that feels vibrant and energetic. For example, "The music is so uplifting; it has life" or "The renovated building now has life thanks to the new tenants".

What are some alternatives to saying "it has life"?

You can use alternatives like "it is alive", "it possesses vitality", or "it is full of life" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "it has life" in formal writing?

Yes, "it has life" can be appropriate in formal writing, especially when used metaphorically to add depth and vividness to your descriptions. However, consider the overall tone and audience to ensure it fits the context. More formal synonyms like "it possesses vitality" may be preferred in certain academic or professional settings.