sit like that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sit like that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a specific way of sitting, often implying that the position is unusual or not typically expected. Example: "Please don't sit like that during the meeting; it makes you look unprofessional."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

"This was the moment of what I said -- I mean I cannot just sit like that and just do nothing, you know, and pretend it's not my problem," he said.

Huffington Post

We sit like that anyway.

The New York Times

"It's rude to sit like that".

The Guardian - Books

"During the ceremony everyone sits around in a circle, drinking tea, and you sit like that for five hours, lights out, completely inside of yourself and beyond yourself.

The Guardian - Music

Those kinds of questions enter a viewer's mind, and during solos by Mr. Vinarsky and Mr. Rogers, recorded voices actually utter them: "Why does he sit like that?" "Does he even understand what he's doing?" The tactic is clever, yet it draws unfortunate attention to the inconsistent caliber of the choreography, now striking, now dull.

The New York Times - Arts

Cover and let the ribs sit like that for about 30 minutes. .

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

They sat like that until the waiter approached.

The New Yorker

She sat like that for a little, quiet while as I looked on, helplessly attentive to this gesture of despair.

The New York Times - Books

They sat like that, in the hot sun, eating Pop-Tarts, Rice Krispies Treats, and two-foot-long Slim Jims.

The New Yorker

On that same Friday in July, at the Nasdaq "command center" deep inside the Trumbull complex, a lone technician sat, like that guy in "The Matrix," watching stacks of computer screens and monitoring a cascade of data — every price offered, every bid hit in the Nasdaq universe.

The New Yorker

They sat like that for a while, watching the boy, not talking.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sit like that" to describe a specific, often noticeable, way of sitting. It's most effective when the context makes the posture clear, or when you are about to elaborate on it.

Common error

Avoid using "sit like that" without providing context. Ensure your audience understands which specific sitting position you're referring to; otherwise, use a more descriptive phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sit like that" functions as a demonstrative phrase used to indicate a specific way of sitting. As Ludwig confirms, it's grammatically correct and its function is to describe or refer to a particular posture.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sit like that" is a grammatically sound and functional demonstrative phrase, predominantly used in informal contexts to describe a specific way of sitting. As Ludwig highlights, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While its usage is relatively uncommon, appearing more frequently in News & Media, it effectively serves to reference a particular posture. When using "sit like that", ensure the context clearly defines the posture to avoid ambiguity. For more formal settings, consider alternatives like "sit in that manner" or "assume that position". In essence, while grammatically correct, the phrase’s informality dictates careful contextual consideration for optimal impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sit in that manner

Focuses on the manner or way of sitting, providing a more formal alternative.

sit in that fashion

Similar to 'sit in that manner' but emphasizes style or appearance.

adopt that posture

Highlights the adoption of a specific body posture while sitting.

assume that position

Refers to taking on a certain physical position while seated.

recline in that way

Specifies reclining or leaning back in a particular manner.

settle in that pose

Describes getting comfortable in a specific pose while sitting.

be seated thus

A more archaic or formal way of saying "sit like that."

position oneself that way

Focuses on the act of arranging oneself in a particular sitting position.

be situated in that pose

Similar to 'settle in that pose', emphasizing the state of being positioned.

rest in that posture

Highlights resting or relaxing in a certain sitting posture.

FAQs

How can I describe a specific way of sitting?

You can use the phrase "sit like that" or more descriptive alternatives like "sit in that manner" or "assume that position" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "sit like that" considered formal or informal?

"Sit like that" is generally considered informal. For more formal contexts, consider using phrases such as "be seated thus" or a more detailed description of the posture.

What does it mean when someone says "don't sit like that"?

It typically means the person is sitting in a way that is considered inappropriate, uncomfortable, or disrespectful in the given context. The specific issue depends on the cultural or social setting.

Can I use "sit like that" in academic writing?

While grammatically correct, "sit like that" may be too informal for academic writing. Opt for more precise and descriptive language to maintain a professional tone. For example, "adopt that posture" may be more suitable.