that I noticed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that I noticed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to something you observed or became aware of in a particular context. Example: "There was a subtle change in her tone that I noticed during our conversation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

After that, I noticed the teachers encouraged me to not go into the experiment room anymore".

The New Yorker

After that, I noticed on my radio in the car that it was on all the time".

The New Yorker

After that, I noticed that my kids' rooms still have plenty of wall space….

Forbes

RS: Now, you've changed your position on that, I noticed.

Huffington Post

Another trending style that I noticed was the extra long t-shirt.

Huffington Post

When I did that, I noticed the extreme lack of variety in the mails.

Vice

One more thing that I noticed today.

The New York Times

Wire watch: none that I noticed.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

I am hopeful you noticed that I noticed you.

The New York Times

It was then that I noticed something on Bob's arm.

The Guardian

It was the leanness of the line that I noticed.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that I noticed", ensure it clearly connects to the subject or event you are describing. Avoid vague references and provide specific details about what was noticed to enhance clarity.

Common error

While "that I noticed" is acceptable, avoid overusing it in formal writing. Instead, consider more sophisticated alternatives like "that I observed" or "as I discerned" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that I noticed" primarily functions as a clause that introduces a personal observation or realization. It connects a preceding statement to something the speaker or writer became aware of, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that I noticed" is a grammatically correct and very common way to introduce a personal observation or realization. According to Ludwig, it's primarily used in news and media contexts, and holds a neutral register suitable for a wide range of communication styles. While versatile, it's advisable to consider more formal alternatives in academic or professional writing to enhance sophistication. Use the phrase to clearly connect an observation to a subject, providing specific details to avoid vagueness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that I observed

Replaces "noticed" with a more formal synonym, emphasizing careful and deliberate observation.

that I became aware of

A more formal and detailed way of saying "noticed", indicating a gradual realization.

what I perceived

Focuses on subjective interpretation through the senses, rather than simple awareness.

that I recognized

Focuses on identifying something familiar, rather than just becoming aware of it.

that I detected

Implies a subtle or hidden element that was discovered, suggesting a more acute awareness.

what caught my attention

Highlights the element that drew one's focus, suggesting a more immediate and perhaps unexpected awareness.

that I discerned

Indicates a more insightful or perceptive observation, implying a deeper understanding.

that I realized

Emphasizes the moment of understanding or comprehension, rather than just observation.

something I spotted

A more informal way to describe noticing something visually and quickly.

that I uncovered

Implies discovering something previously hidden or unknown, often through investigation.

FAQs

How can I use "that I noticed" in a sentence?

Use "that I noticed" to introduce an observation or realization within a narrative. For example, "It was then "that I noticed" the sky turning an unusual shade of orange."

What can I say instead of "that I noticed"?

You can use alternatives like "that I observed", "what I perceived", or "that I became aware of" depending on the context.

Is "that I noticed" formal or informal?

"That I noticed" is generally considered neutral and suitable for most contexts, but using more formal alternatives like "that I observed" can elevate your writing in academic or professional settings.

What's the difference between "that I noticed" and "that I recognized"?

"That I noticed" implies becoming aware of something new, while "that I recognized" suggests identifying something already known or familiar.