tangible thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tangible thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a physical object or something that can be perceived through the senses, often in contrast to abstract concepts. Example: "In the meeting, we discussed the importance of having a tangible thing to represent our goals, such as a prototype or a model."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

You do no tangible thing.

The New York Times

To become a tangible thing?

The Guardian - Books

"We do it to have some tangible thing we can touch, given we can't touch them".

The New York Times

Helping low-income people get good food on the table, that is a tangible thing".

The New York Times

So the idea that there is a solid, consistent, tangible thing is an illusion".

The Guardian - Arts

"It's the last tangible thing that you have to hold onto".

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

"The convention only covers tangible things.

The New York Times

"It's such tangible things," Tebow said.

The New York Times - Sports

"They're all building tangible things," he said, sounding wistful.

The New Yorker

Very few tangible things today do not have an owner.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He said past winners had done "tangible things to improve conditions".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tangible thing" when you want to emphasize the physical, touchable, or concrete nature of something, especially in contrast to abstract concepts or intangible ideas.

Common error

Avoid using "tangible thing" when a more specific noun would be more precise and concise. For example, instead of "a tangible thing like a book", simply say "a book".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tangible thing" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. It refers to a concrete object or item that can be perceived through the senses, particularly touch. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "tangible thing" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that emphasizes the concrete and physical nature of an object or concept. As Ludwig AI points out, it's a correct and usable phrase in English. Its primary function is to highlight physicality, often in contrast to abstract ideas. It appears most commonly in news and media contexts, with a neutral to professional register. When using this phrase, ensure it adds clarity and specificity, and avoid redundancy by choosing more precise nouns when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

concrete object

Emphasizes the physical and solid nature of the object.

physical entity

Highlights the existence of the object in the physical world.

palpable item

Focuses on the ability to be touched or felt.

real object

Stresses the authenticity and non-abstract nature of the object.

material possession

Highlights the ownership aspect of a physical item.

touchable object

Focuses on the sensory experience of touch.

perceptible item

Emphasizes the ability to be perceived through the senses.

solid thing

Highlights the firmness and stability of the object.

visible item

Focuses on the ability to be seen.

actual entity

Stresses the reality and existence of the item.

FAQs

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

You can use "tangible thing" to refer to something physical that can be touched or perceived. For example, "The medal was a "tangible thing" that represented years of hard work."

What are some alternatives to "tangible thing"?

Alternatives include "concrete object", "physical entity", or "palpable item", depending on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "physical tangible thing"?

Yes, saying "physical tangible thing" is generally redundant because "tangible" already implies physicality. It's better to simply use ""tangible thing"".

What's the difference between "tangible thing" and "intangible asset"?

"Tangible thing" refers to something physical and touchable, while "intangible asset" refers to something non-physical but valuable, such as a patent or brand recognition.