tangible stuff

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tangible stuff" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to physical items or concrete objects that can be perceived by the senses, often in contrast to abstract concepts. Example: "In our discussion about the project, we need to focus on the tangible stuff, like the materials and resources we will need."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

They want solid, tangible stuff.

The New York Times - Arts

In the 14th and 15th centuries the tangible stuff of the world became ever more present in Northern European painting.

The New York Times - Arts

It is that tiny asymmetry which produced a universe with enough tangible stuff in it to form galaxies, stars, planets and, ultimately, people.

The Economist

Last-mover advantage Making it in America Of penguins and politics How to make college cheaper ReprintsWhy the attachment to tangible stuff?

The Economist

The business secretary, Vince Cable, talks of polishing the image of an industry associated with dirt and decline, and of rebalancing the economy away from financial services toward more tangible stuff.

The Economist

Pete Townshend was a man who was doing believable, tangible stuff, although of course he was working in myths in the same way that all the other guys were.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

While software developers don't build tangible, physical stuff, we do build stuff.

Huffington Post

That's not even getting into the thousands of crusties whose parents gave them less tangible punk stuff like rape trauma or the genetic predisposition toward alcoholism.

Vice

Obama and his campaign are the embodiment of the tangible and intangible stuff of great leadership and a great President.

Huffington Post

Weeks after the incident, the victim will probably still be brushing off pesky, iridescent pieces of the stuff, a tangible reminder of an issue that won't go away.

The New York Times

It makes it clear to them that it's not just in the best interests of the world to conserve this stuff, but tangible reasons for a whole different group," he said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When contrasting abstract concepts with reality, use "tangible stuff" to emphasize the physical or concrete aspects being considered. This provides a clear distinction for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "tangible stuff" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more sophisticated synonyms like "concrete assets" or "material resources" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tangible stuff" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "tangible" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "stuff". As demonstrated in Ludwig, it often describes concrete items or assets. This phrase highlights the physical and perceivable nature of the items being referenced.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "tangible stuff" effectively refers to concrete, physical items, often in contrast to abstract concepts. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral to informal contexts. For more formal settings, consider alternatives such as "concrete resources" or "material possessions". When aiming for clarity and emphasizing physicality, "tangible stuff" serves as a useful and direct expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

concrete stuff

Replaces "tangible" with "concrete", emphasizing the material and solid aspect.

physical items

Focuses on the physicality of the objects being referred to.

material possessions

Highlights the aspect of ownership and the physical nature of the items.

real things

Simplifies the phrase by using more common and direct words.

palpable items

Substitutes "tangible" with "palpable", which implies something that can be felt or touched.

substantive things

Emphasizes the real and important nature of the items.

physical goods

More specific, referring to tangible items that are produced and sold.

solid items

Focuses on the firmness and reliability of the objects.

actual materials

Highlights the genuineness and physicality of the items.

touchable objects

Directly refers to the ability to physically interact with the items.

FAQs

What does "tangible stuff" mean?

The phrase "tangible stuff" refers to physical items or concrete objects that can be perceived through the senses, often in contrast to abstract or intangible concepts.

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

You might say, "Investors are seeking "solid assets", such as real estate and other "physical items", rather than volatile stocks."

What's a more formal alternative to "tangible stuff"?

In more formal contexts, consider using terms like "concrete resources", "material assets", or "physical goods" to maintain a professional tone.

Is "tangible stuff" appropriate for academic writing?

While "tangible stuff" is understandable, it may be too informal for academic writing. Using more precise and formal terms like "empirical data" or "concrete evidence" is generally preferred.