on this thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on this thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in informal contexts to refer to a specific object, topic, or situation that has been previously mentioned or is understood by the audience. Example: "I have some thoughts on this thing we discussed yesterday, and I think we should consider a different approach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Tech

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Snooki could tan on this thing.

The New York Times

I just spilled something on this thing.

The New York Times

You can really type on this thing.

The New York Times - Tech

Samsung sweated the details on this thing.

The New York Times

Have you slept on this thing?

The New York Times - Magazine

We can't lose money on this thing.

The New York Times

You don't swap lenses on this thing.

The New York Times

He could have walked on this thing.

The New York Times

I think I'm right on this thing".

The New Yorker

That was 7am on this thing.

The Guardian

"Parties really prepare for war on this thing".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on this thing", ensure the context is clear to avoid ambiguity. If the object or topic isn't immediately apparent, rephrase for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "on this thing" in formal writing. Opt for more precise and professional alternatives such as "regarding this matter" or "concerning this issue" to maintain a higher level of formality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on this thing" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun by specifying a location, topic, or focus. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in English, especially in informal settings.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Tech

10%

Sports

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on this thing" is a common and grammatically correct prepositional phrase used primarily in informal contexts. According to Ludwig AI, it's suitable for referring to previously mentioned topics or objects, though clarity should be ensured to avoid ambiguity. For more formal writing, alternatives such as "regarding this matter" are more appropriate. It frequently appears in News & Media, Tech, and Sports, demonstrating its widespread use in contemporary communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

regarding this matter

More formal and specific, focusing on a particular issue or subject.

concerning this item

Emphasizes a specific object or item as the subject of discussion.

about this subject

Broader, referring to a general topic or area of interest.

with respect to this object

Formal and precise, suitable for technical or legal contexts.

in relation to this aspect

Highlights a particular facet or dimension of the topic.

pertaining to this issue

Focuses on the relevance or connection to a specific problem or concern.

in connection with this affair

Suggests involvement or association with a particular event or situation.

considering this point

Introduces a specific argument or idea for deliberation.

with regard to this detail

Draws attention to a specific piece of information or element.

in terms of this element

Frames the discussion within the context of a particular component or aspect.

FAQs

What does "on this thing" mean?

The phrase "on this thing" is an informal way to refer to a specific object, topic, or situation that has been previously mentioned or is understood in the context of the conversation.

How can I make the use of "on this thing" clearer in my writing?

To ensure clarity, make sure the "thing" you're referring to is explicitly stated or easily inferred from the surrounding sentences. If there's any ambiguity, it's best to use a more specific term.

What can I say instead of "on this thing"?

You can use alternatives like "regarding this matter", "concerning this item", or "about this subject" depending on the context.

Is "on this thing" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "on this thing" is generally considered informal. For formal writing, it's better to use more precise and professional language.