something like that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "something like that" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to indicate that there is an example or explanation that is similar to the one being given, but is not the exact one. For example: "I found a bike that I like, but it's a bit pricey. It costs around $500 or something like that."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Probably something like that.

The New York Times - Science

"Did we? Something like that.

Independent

I felt something like that.

The New York Times

We could do something like that.

The New Yorker

I would have loved something like that.

The New Yorker

"The femur, or something like that.

The New Yorker

3. Walk me through something like that.

The New Yorker

Almost every president says something like that.

The Economist

Or he is saying something like that.

The New Yorker

"He was thinking Marquette, something like that.

The New Yorker

Auto-euthanasia, or something like that.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "something like that" to avoid being overly precise when the exact details are not important or unknown. It adds a touch of informality and can soften the tone.

Common error

Avoid using "something like that" in formal reports or academic papers where precision is paramount. Opt for more specific language to maintain credibility and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "something like that" functions as a qualifier or hedge, indicating an approximation or similarity rather than an exact match. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is used to suggest the details may not be precise or fully known.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

22%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "something like that" is a versatile phrase used to indicate approximation, similarity, or a lack of specificity. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. While it appears frequently in news and media, and can be found in scientific or general contexts, it should be used sparingly in formal or academic writing where precision is key. Related phrases include "or "something similar"" and "or "something to that effect"", offering more formal alternatives. Remember to consider your audience and context when deciding whether "something like that" is the appropriate phrase to use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

or something along those lines

Suggests a similar idea or course of action, without being precise.

or similar

A shorter, more direct way of indicating likeness or resemblance.

more or less that

Suggests the statement is generally accurate, though not perfectly exact.

or words to that effect

Emphasizes that the exact wording is not important, but the general meaning is conveyed.

roughly that

Indicates a crude estimate or approximation.

or something of the kind

Suggests a type or category of thing, not necessarily a specific item.

or words of that nature

Indicates the sentiment or essence is similar, not necessarily the explicit content.

approximately that

Indicates an estimation or near equivalence to something stated.

or so

Implies an approximate amount or degree.

in that ballpark

Specifies that something is within a certain range or category, implying an approximation.

FAQs

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

You can use "something like that" to indicate that the example you're giving is similar but not exact. For example, "The cost will be around $100, or "something like that"".

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

In formal contexts, you could use phrases like "or "something similar"", "or "something of that nature"", or "or "something to that effect"" to maintain a professional tone.

Is it appropriate to use "something like that" in academic writing?

Generally, it's best to avoid "something like that" in academic writing because it lacks precision. However, it might be acceptable in less formal sections like the discussion or conclusion, but use it sparingly.

What does "something like that" imply?

"Something like that" implies approximation or a lack of specific knowledge. It suggests that the details are not particularly important or that you're giving a general idea rather than a precise statement.