name something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "name something" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when asking someone to identify or specify an item, concept, or example related to a topic. For example, "Can you name something that makes you happy?" Alternative expressions include "identify something" and "mention something."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Name something.

The New York Times

You name something and people will say it's after us".

The New York Times

I thought they were nice people to name something after".

Independent

To name something is to wield tremendous power.

The New York Times

Give the language a name, something like "Guptagatese".

The New Yorker

"I'm a big believer in 'To name something is to own it,' " he said.

The New Yorker

Name something you are embarrassed to admit… [Laughs] I don't think there is.

Independent

Workplace skills: Name something that an employer – any employer – wants in a young employee.

The New York Times

"Everybody likes to name something 'Pro,' " Lexicon's founder and C.E.O., David Placek, told me dryly.

The New Yorker

If you want to name something, states, go for a beagle.

The New York Times

Maybe I could call myself by some other name, something easier to say, like Colin Firth..

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "name something" in a question, ensure the context clearly defines the category or criteria for the item being requested. For instance, "Name something you are grateful for" provides a specific direction.

Common error

Avoid using "name something" without providing enough context. For example, simply asking "Name something" is unclear. Instead, specify what you want the person to name, such as "Name something you learned today."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "name something" functions as an imperative request or a prompt for someone to provide an example, instance, or specific item that fits a certain criterion. As Ludwig AI highlights, this construction is commonly used to elicit a response involving identification or specification.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Wiki

24%

Science

12%

Less common in

Huffington Post

10%

The New York Times - Sports

2%

The Guardian - Opinion

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "name something" is a versatile phrase used to prompt a person to identify or specify an item. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used. Its register is neutral, making it appropriate for various contexts, though more formal alternatives may be considered for academic or professional settings. When using this phrase, clarity is key to ensure the request is easily understood. Related options like "identify something" and "mention something" can be used to fine-tune your intention.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mention something

Focuses on a simple act of mentioning, with less emphasis on detailed identification.

identify something

Emphasizes recognizing and pointing out a specific item from a set of possibilities.

specify something

Highlights the need for detailed and precise identification, often within a list or set of options.

cite something

Implies providing an example or piece of evidence to support a statement.

list something

Suggests creating a sequence or enumeration of items, rather than focusing on a single identification.

designate something

Highlights formally choosing and assigning a specific role or name to something.

point out something

Emphasizes bringing attention to a specific detail or feature that might otherwise be overlooked.

instance something

Requests an example of a particular concept or category.

suggest something

Asks for an idea or possibility to be put forward.

propose something

Indicates a more formal or considered suggestion, often as a potential solution or course of action.

FAQs

How can I use "name something" in a sentence?

You can use "name something" to ask someone to identify an item, concept, or example. For instance, "Can you "name something" that makes you happy?" or "Name something you learned today".

What's the difference between "name something" and "mention something"?

"Name something" implies a more specific request for identification or selection, whereas "mention something" is a more general request to bring something to attention without necessarily identifying it in detail.

What can I say instead of "name something"?

Alternatives include "identify something", "specify something", or "cite something", depending on the specific context and the level of detail required.

Is it correct to use "name something" in formal writing?

Yes, ""name something"" is acceptable in both formal and informal writing, but in formal contexts, consider alternatives like "identify something" or "specify something" for added precision.