it is something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is something" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that a particular item, idea, or situation has significance or value, often in a vague or non-specific way. Example: "When asked about his feelings on the matter, he simply replied, 'It is something that I need to think about more.'"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It is something internal".

The New York Times

It is something special.

The New York Times

It is something proportional.

Independent

It is something.

The New Yorker

It is something else".

The New York Times

It is something everyone needs".

The Guardian - Business

It is something to do.

The New York Times

It is something very powerful.

The Guardian

It is something much narrower.

The Economist

"It is something absolutely incredible.

The New York Times - Sports

"It is something concrete".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is something" when you want to acknowledge significance without being overly specific. For example, "The project was challenging, but "it is something" I learned a lot from."

Common error

Avoid using "it is something" excessively in formal documents where precise language is preferred. Replace it with more specific terms to enhance clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is something" functions as a subject complement, providing additional information about the subject ('it'). According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English, suggesting its established place in the language.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is something" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to acknowledge significance or importance without being overly specific. As Ludwig confirms, it is widely accepted in written English and used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While suitable for general communication, it may require more specific alternatives in formal settings. By understanding its function and appropriate contexts, writers can effectively use "it is something" to convey meaning while maintaining clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it means something

Directly expresses the significance or definition.

it indicates something

Focuses on pointing out or showing something explicitly.

it demonstrates something

Emphasizes the act of clearly showing or proving something.

it represents something

Focus shifts to the representational aspect rather than a general existence.

it suggests something

Offers a subtle hint or proposition.

it signifies something

Focuses on the symbolic meaning or importance.

it reflects something

Highlights the mirroring or showing of something else.

it constitutes something

Emphasizes the act of forming or composing something.

it embodies something

Suggests a tangible representation or expression.

it implies something

Highlights the indirect suggestion or indication of something.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "it is something"?

You can use alternatives like "it means something", "it represents something", or "it signifies something" depending on the context.

How do I use "it is something" in a sentence?

"It is something" can be used to acknowledge a feeling, situation, or object without needing to define it precisely. For instance, "The experience was unique; it is something I will never forget."

Is "it is something" formal or informal?

"It is something" leans towards being neutral to informal. In more formal settings, consider using more precise and descriptive language.

What's the difference between "it is something" and "it is everything"?

"It is something" implies a certain level of importance or significance, while "it is everything" suggests ultimate importance or all-encompassing relevance.