sensing a pattern

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sensing a pattern" is correct and suitable for use in written English.
It can be used to refer to noticing a trend, such as noting a particular sequence of events that keeps happening. For example, "After analyzing the data, I am sensing a pattern which suggests that there is a relationship between the two variables."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Tell me if you're sensing a pattern here.

The New York Times

The Reds batters, perhaps sensing a pattern, became notably more aggressive as the game wore on.

The New York Times - Sports

But you might be on the point of sensing a pattern here, stretching back beyond even Myleene's Tony Martin moment in January.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

On the other hand, the stars seem to go to French places or French-influenced places, or places where the chef has a French name…are you sensing a pattern?

The New Yorker

I'm sensing a pattern here.

Huffington Post

We're sensing a pattern here.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

In an ending that would be offensive if it weren't so risible, Mr. Osment -- do we sense a pattern here?

The New York Times

1983 (England. Do we sense a pattern here?) One of the greatest World Cup innings, Kapil Dev's unbeaten 175 for India against Zimbabwe, is lost to posterity when the BBC go on a flash strike.

The Guardian - Sport

Blast beats Technique used by extreme metal bands like Napalm Death, whereby kickdrum, snare and cymbals are played at a frankly ridiculous, breakneck speed (you may sense a pattern emerging).

The Guardian - Music

Mr. George, who as an Academy member voted for the shorts categories a few years ago (he picked Martin McDonagh's "Six Shooter," which won, and another Northern Irish film later – the Bagger sensed a pattern), said he had no idea what his chances were this year.

The New York Times

If you're beginning to sense a pattern here, you're absolutely correct.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sensing a pattern" when you want to convey an intuitive understanding of a recurring sequence or trend, rather than a strictly data-driven conclusion.

Common error

Avoid presenting "sensing a pattern" as definitive evidence. It suggests an initial observation that should be followed by rigorous analysis to confirm its validity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sensing a pattern" functions as a verb phrase, where "sensing" acts as a present participle modifying the noun phrase "a pattern". It indicates the act of perceiving or becoming aware of a recurring sequence or trend. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and suitable for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sensing a pattern" is a grammatically correct and semantically valid expression used to convey the recognition of a recurring sequence or trend. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for written English. While its register is primarily neutral, appearing frequently in "News & Media" and "Science", it is less common in formal or highly technical contexts. When using "sensing a pattern", remember that it denotes an initial observation that often requires further investigation. Alternatives like "detecting a trend" or "observing a recurrence" can provide nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

detecting a trend

Focuses specifically on identifying a direction or tendency in data or behavior.

observing a recurrence

Highlights the act of seeing something happen repeatedly.

noticing a regularity

Highlights the observation of something occurring at consistent intervals.

seeing a common thread

Highlights the recognition of a recurring element that links seemingly disparate things.

recognizing a scheme

Implies understanding an underlying plan or arrangement.

perceiving a connection

Emphasizes the realization that there is a link between different events or pieces of information.

grasping a commonality

Emphasizes the understanding of a shared attribute among different things.

identifying a motif

Specifically refers to spotting a recurring element or theme, often in artistic or literary contexts.

understanding a model

Focuses on the process of comprehending an existing abstract model.

ascertaining a rhythm

Implies discerning a regular beat or flow.

FAQs

What does it mean to say I'm "sensing a pattern"?

Saying you're "sensing a pattern" means you're noticing a recurring sequence of events or a trend. It suggests an intuitive understanding rather than a definitive conclusion.

What can I say instead of "sensing a pattern"?

You can use alternatives like "detecting a trend", "noticing a regularity", or "recognizing a scheme" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "sensing a pattern" in formal writing?

While "sensing a pattern" is grammatically correct, it might be more suitable for informal or neutral contexts. In formal writing, consider more precise terms like "identifying a trend" or "observing a recurrence".

How can I follow up after "sensing a pattern" to strengthen my argument?

After "sensing a pattern", gather data and evidence to support your initial observation. Perform statistical analysis or conduct further research to confirm or refute the perceived trend.