it is exactly that

USAGE SUMMARY

"it is exactly that" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to emphasize a point or to agree with someone. For example, "I think we should do something about the poverty in our city," to which you could reply, "It is exactly that—taking action to help those in need."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

On its parent album, Love Letter, it is exactly that vibe he mines: the album is full of classicist balladry and heartfelt vocals.

The Guardian - Music

But we both realized that it is exactly that starchiness that gives risotto its texture.

The New York Times - Food

It is exactly that: sponge cake with some plums in it.

Independent

It is exactly that question of practicability on which our party has focused.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is exactly that all-too-familiar ring that worries many analysts.

The New York Times

Edmund Burke spoke of radical reform to preserve nationhood, and it is exactly that type of reform that the Hashimoto government has set about implementing.

The Economist

The agency's critics say it is exactly that kind of problem that underlines why automation will never fit New York the way it might smaller, less complicated systems.

The New York Times

But it is exactly that activist approach that so irked President Felipe Calderón, say Mexican and American officials, who note that the dispute signals a divide between the countries over the role of an American ambassador.

The New York Times

It is exactly that "unique P.R. opportunity," as Mr. Gonzalez Loscertales calls the expo, that the 2020 bidders — in addition to Dubai, Izmir, Turkey Sãoo Paulo, Brazil; and Yekaterinburg, Russia, are seeking the event — hope to exploit.

The New York Times - Tech

(There are even two calendars, and a millennium and a half of feuds and wars, to work with).And it is exactly that issue of calendars that keeps violent feuds going.

The Economist

"It is exactly that kind of commitment that will help ensure that our history and our rights will remain intact not just for us today, but for the generations to whom we will pass them on," Keane said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is exactly that" to reinforce a previously stated point, adding emphasis and clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "it is exactly that" excessively in casual conversation; simpler expressions like "exactly" or "that's it" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is exactly that" functions as an emphatic affirmation or agreement. It's used to strongly concur with a previous statement, reinforcing its validity or importance. As noted by Ludwig, the phrase is considered correct in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is exactly that" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that functions as a powerful tool for affirmation and agreement. As Ludwig AI explains, it is considered correct in written English and is suitable across various contexts, though perhaps less so in very informal settings. Predominantly found in News & Media, its purpose is to emphatically validate a statement, leaving little room for doubt. When a slightly different tone is needed, alternatives like "that's precisely it" or "that is the point" can be employed. Therefore, use this phrase to add emphasis and clarity when you want to strongly concur with a previous point.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that's precisely it

Changes the structure slightly while maintaining the emphasis on agreement.

that's just it

Offers a more concise way to express the same idea.

that's the very thing

Emphasizes the specific item or aspect being discussed.

that's spot on

Uses an informal idiom to express perfect accuracy.

that is the point

Shifts the focus to highlighting the key idea or argument.

that's quite right

Adds a touch of formality while agreeing.

that's the crux of the matter

Emphasizes the most important or decisive point.

that's the heart of it

Highlights the core or essence of the issue.

you've hit the nail on the head

Employs an idiom to signify perfect understanding or accuracy.

that's the long and short of it

Provides an idiomatic way to summarize a situation.

FAQs

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

Use "it is exactly that" to affirm or emphasize a statement. For example, if someone says, "This policy needs revision," you could respond, "It is exactly that—a complete overhaul is necessary."

What phrases are similar to "it is exactly that"?

Alternatives include "that's precisely it", "that's just it", or "that is the point", each offering a slightly different nuance while maintaining the core meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "it is exactly that" in formal writing?

Yes, "it is exactly that" is suitable for formal writing, especially when you want to strongly affirm or emphasize a point. However, consider the overall tone and audience to ensure it fits seamlessly.

What is the difference between "it is exactly that" and "it is just that"?

"It is exactly that" emphasizes precision and agreement, while "it is just that" often introduces a clarification or limitation to a previous statement.