often said that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "often said that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are referencing a commonly held belief, opinion, or idea. For example, "It is often said that practice makes perfect."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is often said that doctors are only human.

Medical Journal Armed Forces India

It's often said that it's lonely at the top.

Columbia University

It's often said that leaders "inspire".

Harvard Business Review

It's often said that love knows no bounds.

Independent

She often said that Mr. Boehm cared nothing for business.

The New York Times

It is often said that Wenger is a teacher.

The New York Times - Sports

It's often said that Crichton's novels read like movies.

The New Yorker

"It's often said that behavior doesn't leave fossils," Provine says.

The New Yorker

It is often said that video games are recession-proof.

The Economist

She often said that she wished she'd never been born.

The New Yorker

"It's often said that insurance isn't bought, it's sold.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "often said that" to introduce a common belief or idea before either supporting or refuting it with your own evidence and analysis. This acknowledges the existing perspective while setting the stage for your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "often said that" as a substitute for original thought or research. Always provide context and critically evaluate the statement rather than simply repeating it as an unquestioned truth.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "often said that" functions as an introductory phrase to a subordinate clause. It serves to present a generally accepted idea or belief, setting the stage for further discussion or analysis. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

30%

Science

25%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "often said that" is a versatile and grammatically sound construction used to introduce commonly held beliefs or statements. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability across a variety of contexts. Predominantly found in news, academic, and scientific sources, it serves as a neutral way to present shared understandings, allowing for subsequent analysis or argumentation. When using this phrase, it is important to avoid relying solely on clichés and to critically evaluate the statement being introduced.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

people often say that

This is a more direct and conversational alternative.

it is a common belief that

This highlights the idea as a popular held conviction.

it is frequently stated that

This is a more formal way of indicating something is often said.

it is generally believed that

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the widespread acceptance of an idea.

popular opinion holds that

This emphasizes that the idea is a widely shared viewpoint.

it is widely known that

This suggests that the information is common knowledge.

it's a well-known fact that

Implies the statement is verifiable and widely recognized.

as the saying goes

This option invokes a traditional proverb or adage.

the common wisdom suggests

This suggests a widely accepted but possibly unproven idea.

the conventional wisdom is

Highlights a prevailing belief, often in contrast to critical thinking.

FAQs

How can I use "often said that" in a sentence?

The phrase "often said that" is used to introduce a commonly held belief or statement. For example, "It's "often said that" practice makes perfect."

What are some alternatives to "often said that"?

You can use alternatives such as "it is generally believed that", "it is widely known that", or "people often say that" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to use "often said that"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The structure introduces a subordinate clause expressing a common sentiment.

What is the difference between "often said that" and "frequently stated that"?

"Often said that" is slightly more informal and implies a conversational tone, while "frequently stated that" suggests a more formal or official declaration.