something to finish

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "something to finish" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a task or project that requires completion. Example: "I have a few tasks on my to-do list, but the most important one is something to finish before the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"The Americans wanted something to finish it; the compromise is to defer it, which means it is still alive".

The New York Times

If you don't have something to finish, start something!

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Emily: Let's say something specific to finish off.

The New Yorker

Sometimes, signs and conversations that seemed meaningless at the time, now reveal something important to finish a puzzle.

WikiHow

"I had such an attachment to it as something I wanted to finish and something I wanted people to hear".

The New Yorker

"It's something I wanted to finish," Dickey said.

The New York Times

When you start something, you have to finish it".

The New York Times

"But something told me to finish the book while we were in rehearsals for the play.

The New Yorker

"But" -- and he lingered on the word -- "but when you start something, you got to finish it".

The New York Times

I have the freedom to decide how and when to work on my PhD, but it's definitely something I want to finish.

The Guardian - Music

Congratulations to all the Hackathon participants, there's nothing as exciting as designing and developing something from start to finish — it was tough but you've made it.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "something to finish", ensure the context clearly indicates what the 'something' refers to. This prevents ambiguity and makes your writing more precise.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "something to finish" can sound informal in certain professional settings. Consider using more specific and formal alternatives such as "a project to finalize" or "a task to complete" for increased professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "something to finish" functions as an infinitive phrase, typically acting as a noun modifier. It identifies and describes the type of 'something' requiring completion, clarifying its state or purpose. Ludwig confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "something to finish" is a grammatically correct infinitive phrase used to describe an incomplete task or project. According to Ludwig, it's usable in written English, although it may be perceived as informal in certain professional settings. Its usage is relatively rare, predominantly appearing in News & Media and Wiki content. For increased formality, consider alternatives like "a task to complete". Remember to ensure clarity in your writing by explicitly defining what the 'something' refers to. While valid, use it thoughtfully, considering the context and desired tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a task to complete

Focuses specifically on the 'task' aspect, implying a defined piece of work.

an item to wrap up

Emphasizes the act of finalizing or concluding something.

a project to finalize

Highlights the formal completion of a project.

something to conclude

Focuses on bringing a matter to a close or resolution.

a matter to settle

Implies resolving an outstanding issue.

a deal to seal

Specifically refers to completing an agreement.

unfinished business

Refers to tasks or issues left unresolved from the past.

an end to achieve

Highlights the desired outcome or purpose.

an aim to realize

Focuses on making a goal or intention a reality.

a goal to accomplish

Highlights the successful completion of a goal.

FAQs

What does "something to finish" mean?

The phrase "something to finish" generally refers to a task, project, or obligation that needs to be completed or brought to a conclusion.

How can I use "something to finish" in a sentence?

You can use the phrase to indicate an incomplete item requiring completion. For example, "I have "a task to complete" before leaving work today".

What are some alternatives to "something to finish"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases such as "a task to complete", "an item to wrap up", or "a project to finalize".

Is it better to say "something to finish" or "something to be finished"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "something to finish" is more direct and common. "Something to be finished" places more emphasis on the action being performed on the 'something'.