sort of doing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sort of doing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a vague or uncertain action or state, often indicating that something is happening to a limited extent. Example: "I'm sort of doing my best to finish the project on time, but there are many challenges."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Musk decided to revolutionize three industries all at once and is sort of doing it.

The New York Times

When I was living in New Jersey, I was just sort of doing my own thing.

The New York Times

"We're just sort of doing things the way we want to do them," Nansel said.

The New York Times - Travel

"So it feels like a miracle because I'm sort of doing all three through this".

The Guardian

Greenspan is aware that he is sort of doing both," Mr. Blinder said.

The New York Times

For the moment we're still sort of doing one week at his, one week at mine, though".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

"I'm sort of done with that".

The New York Times - Arts

"You just sort of do whatever".

The New York Times - Magazine

I sort of don't think so.

The New York Times

In a way, he sort of did.

The New York Times

Sort of don't.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sort of doing" to convey a sense of imprecision or approximation. It's suitable when you want to indicate that an action is underway but not fully realized or defined. For example, instead of saying "I am researching the topic", you might say "I'm sort of doing research on the topic", which softens the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "sort of doing" in formal writing or professional settings where precision is crucial. Over-reliance on this phrase can make your communication seem vague and indecisive. Opt for more direct and specific language to convey your message effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sort of doing" functions as an adverbial modifier, softening the verb it accompanies. As Ludwig AI confirms, it introduces a degree of uncertainty or approximation to the action, indicating that the action is not being performed fully or definitively. The adverbial function provides nuance to the verb, specifying the extent or manner of the action.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "sort of doing" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that an action is happening to a limited extent. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. While frequently found in news and media sources, it is less common in formal or scientific writing. It serves to soften or qualify the action being described, conveying a sense of imprecision or uncertainty. For more formal settings, alternatives like "partially engaged in" or "in the process of" are more appropriate. Ultimately, understanding the context is crucial in determining whether "sort of doing" is the right choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

kind of doing

Replaces "sort of" with "kind of", maintaining the same level of informality and uncertainty.

partially doing

Indicates that the action is not fully completed or wholeheartedly performed.

somewhat doing

Uses "somewhat" to express a moderate degree of engagement in the action.

in the process of doing

Focuses on the ongoing nature of the action, implying it's not yet finished.

tentatively doing

Suggests the action is being carried out with hesitation or uncertainty.

experimenting with doing

Implies a trial-and-error approach to the action.

dabbling in doing

Suggests a casual or unserious engagement in the action.

approaching doing

Indicates moving towards performing the action but not fully engaged yet.

marginally doing

Emphasizes the minimal extent to which the action is being performed.

halfway doing

Implies that the action is only half-finished or half-hearted.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "sort of doing" to sound more formal?

To sound more formal, replace "sort of doing" with phrases like "partially engaged in", "in the process of", or "currently undertaking". The best option depends on the specific context of your sentence.

Is it ever appropriate to use "sort of doing" in academic writing?

While generally discouraged, "sort of doing" might be acceptable in less formal sections of academic work, like a personal reflection or an informal progress report, but avoid it in research findings or conclusions. Always consider your audience and the specific requirements of your assignment.

What's the difference between "kind of doing" and "sort of doing"?

The phrases "kind of doing" and "sort of doing" are often interchangeable and carry the same meaning: expressing a vague or approximate action. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference or regional dialect.

When should I avoid using "sort of doing" in my writing?

Avoid using "sort of doing" in situations requiring precision or formality, such as legal documents, scientific reports, or formal business communications. In these contexts, choose more direct and specific language to avoid ambiguity.