tangible items

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tangible items" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to physical objects that can be touched or perceived through the senses, often in contrast to intangible items like ideas or digital assets. Example: "The store specializes in selling tangible items such as furniture, electronics, and home decor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

While tangible items are important, they do little to help repair the "social fabric" that has been torn apart.

The Guardian

Physical evidence Tangible items that link a suspect to the crime scene are classified as physical evidence.

The Guardian

Readers will recall the tensions between Amref and the local leadership over balancing the need for training workshops with tangible items.

The Guardian

As with many high-tech startups, it's a race to turn concepts into tangible items, because in these Internet days, time is compressed.

The New York Times

There are many songs about the theft or smuggling of other, less tangible items – stealing someone's heart or sunshine, stolen moments, or stolen glances.

The Guardian - Music

Conversely, the companies that are now replete with assets -- power plants and other tangible items as opposed to just trading and marketing operations -- will be better off, he said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Newspapers such as The Economist still print and distribute a tangible item.

The Economist

There is also an alternative to the Alternative Gift Market, for those who need to buy a tangible item for a family member or friend.

The New York Times

Goldman's trading system, he argued, was built for internal use and was not a tangible item of property distributed and used by the commercial public.

The New York Times

A notice on the site reads: "Any metaphysical service that promises or suggests it will effect a physical change (e.g., weight loss) or other outcome (e.g., love, revenge) is not allowed, even if it delivers a tangible item".

Independent

It isn't about the tangible item itself, but all about the effort and, as it seems in this case, the sacrifice made to show affection to the newlyweds.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When contrasting "tangible items" with intangible concepts, ensure the distinction is clear to enhance understanding. For example, differentiate between physical goods and digital services to clarify your point.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "tangible items" always hold more value than intangible ones. While physical objects are easily perceived, intangible assets like intellectual property or brand reputation can be equally or more valuable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tangible items" primarily functions as a noun phrase, identifying physical objects that can be touched or perceived. As Ludwig AI explains, it's often used to contrast concrete objects with abstract or intangible concepts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

29%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "tangible items" is a noun phrase used to refer to physical objects that can be perceived through the senses. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s a grammatically sound and widely used phrase across diverse contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. When writing, it’s important to maintain a clear distinction between "tangible items" and intangible assets, ensuring that the context clarifies the specific meaning. While the phrase is generally versatile, alternatives like "physical objects" or "material possessions" may be more appropriate depending on the intended emphasis. This guide highlights its correct usage, common errors to avoid, and related phrases to enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

physical objects

Focuses on the physicality of the items, omitting the aspect of being perceivable.

material possessions

Emphasizes ownership and the material nature of the items.

concrete goods

Highlights the solidity and realness of the items.

palpable things

Stresses the ability to be touched and felt.

touchable objects

Focuses on the tactile aspect of the items.

corporeal items

Emphasizes the physical and bodily nature of the items, which may not always be relevant.

physical assets

Implies value and resource aspect, relevant in economic contexts.

solid commodities

Highlights the commercial aspect of the items being traded.

real articles

Underscores the genuineness and reality of the items.

perceptible objects

Highlights that the objects can be noticed through the senses.

FAQs

How can I use "tangible items" in a sentence?

You can use "tangible items" to refer to physical objects that can be touched or perceived, such as "The store sells a variety of "tangible items", including furniture and electronics".

What are some alternatives to "tangible items"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "physical objects", "material possessions", or "concrete goods" to replace ""tangible items"".

Is it correct to use "tangible items" in a formal setting?

Yes, ""tangible items"" is appropriate for formal settings, especially when discussing assets, goods, or physical products.

What's the difference between "tangible items" and "intangible assets"?

"Tangible items" are physical objects that can be touched, while intangible assets are non-physical resources like brand reputation or intellectual property.