looking at this thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "looking at this thing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to examining or considering an object, idea, or situation in a casual or informal context. Example: "While looking at this thing, I realized it might not be as complicated as I first thought."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

"But I'm looking at this thing and saying to myself: 'Son of a gun.

The New York Times

We're stuck in the van looking at this thing coming at us.

The Guardian - Travel

Every team in the world was looking at this thing and trying to compete to say things first.

Harvard University

"What's happening here is your visual system is looking at this thing, and you're trying to discount the chromatic bias of the daylight axis".

Independent

"Nobody looking at this thing would think it was the Farmer's Almanac," said Robert W. Fiddler of Fiddler & Levine in New York.

The New York Times

It's a good thing I know how to multitask, because if I didn't, I would have had a panic attack just looking at this thing.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Seriously, look at this thing.

The Guardian - Sport

Please look at this thing in a more objective manner".

The New York Times

"You look at this thing on the wall," Dr. Shostak said.

The New York Times

"Let me look at this thing one last time," Obama said.

The Washington Post

"I mean look at this thing," he said as we passed the Calhoun statue.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "looking at this thing", ensure the context is casual or informal. For more formal situations, consider alternatives like "examining this object" or "assessing this matter".

Common error

Avoid using "looking at this thing" in formal writing or professional settings. Its casual tone can undermine the seriousness of your message. Opt for more precise and professional language to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looking at this thing" functions as a participial phrase, often introducing a clause that provides context or explanation. It's a common way to describe the act of observation or consideration, as shown by Ludwig. The phrase serves to direct attention to something specific.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "looking at this thing" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that is best suited for informal contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability, highlighting its utility in everyday language. While it appears in news and media, it is less common in formal writing, where more precise alternatives are preferred. To ensure clarity and maintain a professional tone, consider using phrases like "examining this object" or "assessing this matter" in more formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

considering this matter

Substitutes "looking" with "considering", shifting the focus to mental evaluation.

examining this object

Replaces the informal "thing" with a more specific noun, increasing formality.

observing this item

Uses "observing" to emphasize a more detached or scientific viewpoint.

inspecting this object

Implies a closer, more detailed examination.

reviewing this situation

Frames "thing" as a situation requiring assessment.

analyzing this aspect

Emphasizes a systematic and detailed examination.

assessing this element

Highlights the act of judging or evaluating the "thing".

scrutinizing this detail

Suggests a critical and thorough examination.

pondering this issue

Shifts focus to thoughtful consideration of a problem.

contemplating this idea

Implies a deep and prolonged reflection.

FAQs

What does "looking at this thing" mean?

The phrase "looking at this thing" generally means observing, examining, or considering something that is present or under discussion. It is often used in informal contexts.

What can I say instead of "looking at this thing"?

You can use alternatives like "examining this object", "considering this matter", or "observing this item" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "looking at this thing" in formal writing?

No, "looking at this thing" is generally considered too informal for formal writing. Opt for more precise and professional alternatives such as "analyzing this aspect" or "assessing this element".

How can the meaning of "looking at this thing" be changed by replacing "thing"?

Replacing "thing" with a more specific noun, such as "object", "matter", or "situation", can make the phrase more precise and suitable for a wider range of contexts. This can reduce ambiguity and improve clarity.