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CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
tangible and intangible
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"tangible and intangible" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe two opposites, such as physical and abstract ideas. For example, "Education involves tangible resources, like books and classrooms, as well as intangible resources, like knowledge and experience."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Encyclopedias
Alternative expressions(1)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
Preservation includes both tangible and intangible elements.
Analyse its outputs, both tangible and intangible.
News & Media
Strikes have both tangible and intangible outcomes.
Academia
Ethnic identity is formed by both tangible and intangible characteristics.
Encyclopedias
Companies that become B Corps enjoy tangible and intangible benefits.
News & Media
Involving employees in energy strategy has tangible and intangible benefits.
News & Media
Mary is mysterious, both tangible and intangible, crossing fluidly between dreams and reality.
News & Media
Tremendous tangible and intangible costs are borne by both victims and businesses.
Encyclopedias
In my opinion, the benefits of collegiate athletics, both tangible and intangible, far outweigh the cost.
News & Media
"I don't want our tangible and intangible heritage to disappear," she says.
News & Media
A tangible and intangible resource-oriented taxonomy in an integrated enterprise modelling environment is established.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "tangible and intangible", ensure the context clearly establishes the distinction between the two. Provide specific examples of each to avoid ambiguity.
Common error
Avoid using "tangible and intangible" when the categories aren't truly distinct. Ensure the "tangible" aspects are genuinely physical and the "intangible" aspects are genuinely abstract, without significant overlap.
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "tangible and intangible" functions as a compound adjective, modifying nouns to describe two contrasting categories of qualities or assets. As Ludwig AI highlights, it is commonly used to encompass both concrete and abstract elements.
Frequent in
News & Media
31%
Science
31%
Academia
12%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
5%
Wiki
2%
Formal & Business
2%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "tangible and intangible" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase for encompassing both concrete and abstract aspects across diverse contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and the provided examples highlight its prevalence in science, news, and academia. To enhance clarity, provide specific examples for both categories when using this phrase. Related alternatives include "concrete and abstract" or "physical and non-physical", although the best choice depends on the specific context. Although the phrase is commonly correct, avoid using it when the distinction between tangible and intangible is not clear. Overall, the phrase is a versatile tool for comprehensive descriptions.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
concrete and abstract
Focuses on the difference between what is definite and perceptible versus what is conceptual.
material and immaterial
Highlights the presence or absence of matter, providing a direct contrast.
physical and non-physical
Emphasizes the material versus immaterial aspects, focusing on physicality.
substantial and unsubstantial
Emphasizes the degree to which something has substance or reality.
palpable and impalpable
Stresses the ability (or inability) to be felt or perceived.
perceptible and imperceptible
Highlights what can be noticed versus what escapes observation.
visible and invisible
Focuses on what can be seen versus what cannot.
real and notional
Contrasts what exists in reality with what is merely an idea.
sensible and insensible
Highlights the ability to be perceived by the senses versus not.
objective and subjective
Contrasts external reality with personal perception.
FAQs
How can I use "tangible and intangible" in a sentence?
You can use "tangible and intangible" to describe the different aspects of something. For example, "A company's value consists of both "tangible and intangible" assets, such as equipment and brand reputation."
What's the difference between "tangible and intangible" and "concrete and abstract"?
"Concrete and abstract" is very similar to "tangible and intangible". "Tangible and intangible" emphasizes the physical presence versus the lack thereof, while "concrete and abstract" emphasizes definiteness versus conceptual nature. Both phrases can often be used interchangeably, however it depends on the context.
What are some examples of tangible and intangible benefits?
Examples of tangible benefits include increased revenue, reduced costs, and improved efficiency. Intangible benefits might include improved employee morale, enhanced brand reputation, and stronger customer loyalty.
Is it redundant to say "tangible and intangible assets"?
No, it is not redundant. The phrase "tangible and intangible assets" is commonly used to ensure that all types of assets are considered, from physical items to intellectual property and goodwill. Omitting either word could lead to an incomplete assessment.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.6/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested