something that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "something that" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used when introducing a clause that explains or provides further detail about a subject. For example: "He had a strange feeling, something that he had never experienced before."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Something that might survive.

The New York Times

"It's something that happens".

The New York Times - Sports

"Maybe something that would fruit".

The New York Times

But not something that big".

The New Yorker

It's something that stimulates me.

The New Yorker

That's something that is wrong".

The New Yorker

It's something that requires cultivation.

The New York Times

Districts want something that works".

The New York Times

"It's something that can happen.

The New York Times - Sports

Something that gives them carbs".

The New Yorker

something that should be clarified.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When clarity is crucial, ensure the clause introduced by "something that" directly and unambiguously relates to the subject it modifies.

Common error

Avoid using "something that" when the subject is too vague or undefined. Replace it with a more specific noun phrase to improve clarity. For example, instead of "There's something that I need to tell you", try "There's a secret that I need to tell you."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "something that" functions as a relative pronoun introducing a relative clause. This clause modifies the noun "something", providing additional information or description. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

33%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "something that" is a versatile phrase used to introduce relative clauses that provide additional information or description. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, appearing frequently in News & Media and Wiki contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's advisable to consider more specific terms for enhanced clarity in formal writing. Common errors include overuse in vague contexts, where greater specificity would improve communication. By understanding its function and purpose, writers can effectively leverage "something that" to enhance their expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an aspect that

Replaces "something" with "aspect", emphasizing a particular facet or characteristic being discussed.

a quality that

Uses "quality" instead of "something" to emphasize a specific attribute or characteristic.

an item which

Uses "item" to refer to a specific thing and "which" to introduce a relative clause, emphasizing a particular object or element.

a characteristic that

Similar to "an aspect that", but specifies that the focus is on a defining trait or quality.

a property that

Highlights a specific property or attribute followed by a relative clause.

a feature which

Highlights a specific feature followed by a relative clause, focusing on particular attributes or functionalities.

an element that

Similar to "an item which", but refers to a component part of a larger whole.

a detail which

Highlights a specific detail followed by a relative clause, focusing on particular aspects or features.

a factor that

Emphasizes a contributing cause or influence, rather than a general thing.

a component which

Focuses on a constituent part followed by a relative clause, specifying a particular element or piece.

FAQs

How do I use "something that" in a sentence?

Use "something that" to introduce a clause that describes or clarifies an unspecified noun. For example, "I need "something that" is durable".

What are some alternatives to "something that"?

Alternatives include "an aspect that", "a feature that", or "a detail that", depending on the specific context and what you want to emphasize.

Is it ever better to use a more specific term than "something that"?

Yes, using a more specific term can often improve clarity and precision. For example, instead of "I need "something that" can cut wood", you could say "I need a saw".

Can "something that" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "something that" is grammatically correct and can be used in formal writing, but consider if a more precise term would be more appropriate for the context. Using specific language over vague language like "something" often improves clarity.