like a thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "like a thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in informal contexts to compare something to an object or concept in a vague or metaphorical way. Example: "He moved through the crowd like a thing, blending in effortlessly with the chaos around him."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Perhaps Teddy bears back then were, "like, a thing," one said.

The New Yorker

If I don't like a thing, saying "I like this thing!" every morning won't change that.

Huffington Post

"What you're supposed to do when you don't like a thing is change it.

Huffington Post

"The KKK is, like, a thing again.

The New Yorker

This is how we make, like, a thing.

The New Yorker

Running like a thing pursued, except — it wasn't.

The New York Times - Magazine

It doesn't feel like a thing that exists in the world to me.

The New York Times

My father pronounced it raw-eel, like a thing you eat with your eyes closed.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Otherwise, like, CHOOSE A THING.

Vice

When he likes a thing, Mitchell is equally demonstrative.

The Guardian

Ask if they like a specific thing.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "like a thing" to add a touch of informality or vagueness when describing something, but avoid overusing it in formal writing.

Common error

Avoid using "like a thing" in formal essays, reports, or business communications. It can make your writing sound unprofessional. Instead, opt for more precise and formal alternatives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like a thing" functions as a simile, comparing something to an object or concept. As seen in Ludwig, it is often used to add a touch of informality to descriptions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "like a thing" serves as an informal simile, often used to express vagueness or draw a metaphorical comparison. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use across various platforms, especially in news, media and wiki articles. While versatile, it's crucial to avoid overuse in formal writing, where more precise language is preferable. Consider alternatives like "sort of thing" or "something of that nature" when a more formal tone is required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sort of thing

Implies something is of a particular type but not precisely defined, focusing on categorization.

kind of thing

Similar to 'sort of thing', it indicates a general category without specifics.

something of that nature

More formal alternative, indicating a similarity in essence or characteristics.

a similar concept

Focuses on the conceptual similarity rather than a physical or tangible thing.

a comparable item

Emphasizes a comparison between items, often used when discussing objects.

in that vein

Suggests a related train of thought or activity.

along those lines

Indicates a similarity in direction or approach.

a similar situation

Highlights a parallel in circumstances or events.

a related matter

Points to a connection between different topics or subjects.

an analogous situation

Draws a comparison highlighting a similar relationship or structure.

FAQs

How can I use "like a thing" in a sentence?

You can use "like a thing" to describe something in a vague or metaphorical way, for example: "He moved through the crowd "like a thing", blending in effortlessly with the chaos around him."

What can I say instead of "like a thing"?

You can use alternatives like "sort of thing", "kind of thing", or "something of that nature" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "like a thing"?

Yes, the phrase "like a thing" "is correct" and usable in written English, particularly in informal contexts.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "like a thing"?

It's best to use "like a thing" in informal settings or when you want to convey a sense of vagueness or approximation. Avoid using it in formal writing where precision is key.