quite like that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "quite like that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a strong preference or fondness for something in a casual or conversational context. Example: "I don't usually enjoy romantic comedies, but I quite like that one we watched last night."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Well, it wasn't quite like that.

The New Yorker

Maybe it wasn't quite like that.

The New York Times

Only it wasn't quite like that.

The New Yorker

No, it wasn't quite like that.

Independent

'It wasn't quite like that.

The Guardian - Film

In Caracas, it isn't quite like that.

The New York Times

Before I would quite like that.

The Guardian

With Khan, needless to say, it wasn't quite like that.

Independent

Sadly, I now learn, it wasn't quite like that.

Independent

Yeah, I'd quite like that.

Vice

"Obviously it wasn't quite like that.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "quite like that" to politely express disagreement or to soften a correction, implying a situation is similar but not identical to what was previously stated.

Common error

Avoid using "quite like that" repeatedly in close succession. Vary your language to keep your writing engaging. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "quite like that" functions as a qualifier, modifying a previous statement by indicating that while there may be similarities, the current situation or subject is not identical to what was previously mentioned. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "quite like that" serves as a useful qualifier to suggest a similarity that isn't exact. Ludwig AI data confirms its proper grammatical standing and widespread use. It's most commonly found in news and media contexts. While it's generally acceptable, overuse should be avoided to maintain clarity and engagement. When writing, use it to provide a nuanced perspective and avoid direct contradiction. Remember that while alternatives exist, "quite like that" offers a unique blend of politeness and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not exactly like that

Highlights the difference, indicating the situation is similar but with notable variations.

not quite the same as that

Focuses on the distinction, conveying a sense of difference.

not entirely like that

Suggests the situation shares some similarities but isn't a complete parallel.

somewhat similar to that

Emphasizes a partial resemblance rather than an exact match.

fairly similar to that

Indicates a moderate degree of likeness.

kind of like that

Offers a more casual way to express similarity.

in a similar vein to that

Suggests likeness in style or manner, but not necessarily in specific details.

along those lines

Indicates a general similarity without committing to specifics.

in that ballpark

Suggests an approximate likeness, often used in informal contexts.

reminiscent of that

Implies a similarity that brings the original to mind.

FAQs

How can I use "quite like that" in a sentence?

Use "quite like that" to express that something is similar to what was mentioned, but not exactly the same. For example, "I thought the movie would be scary, but it wasn't "quite like that"."

What's a more formal alternative to "quite like that"?

In a more formal setting, you could use phrases like "not entirely the same as that" or "somewhat similar but with key differences" instead of "quite like that".

Is it correct to say "not quite like that"?

Yes, "not quite like that" is a correct and common way to express that something is not exactly as described. It implies a degree of similarity but also highlights differences.

What's the difference between "just like that" and "quite like that"?

"Just like that" implies something happened suddenly or easily, while "quite like that" suggests a similarity that is not exact. For instance, "He fixed the car just like that" versus "The ending wasn't "quite like that" I expected."