that action

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that action" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a specific action that has been previously mentioned or is understood in context. Example: "I believe that action is necessary to address the ongoing issues in our community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Perform that action.

The Guardian - Tech

That does not imply that action should be delayed.

The New York Times

"We the new Jackson's and momma 'bout that action".

Independent

Therefore that action appears as 'contra-rotating'.

Mechatronics

However, he said that action had come too late.

BBC

However, it is now widely felt that action is needed.

BBC

He also suggested that action could come early next year.

BBC

And he knows that action is urgent.

Huffington Post

He pledged that action would be taken.

Huffington Post

He believed that action is the main thing.

Wikipedia

All that action fit seamlessly into just a few seconds.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that action" to refer back to something specific already stated in your text to maintain clarity and avoid ambiguity. This ensures your reader knows exactly what you're referencing.

Common error

Avoid using "that action" repeatedly in a short paragraph. Instead, use synonyms or rephrase to prevent redundancy and make your writing more engaging. Consider alternatives like "the aforementioned action" or simply rephrase the sentence to avoid direct reference.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that action" serves as a determiner phrase, specifically functioning as a referential expression. It points back to a previously mentioned or understood action, clarifying which action is being discussed. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Encyclopedias

13%

Science

13%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

The Guardian - Arts

2%

Forbes

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that action" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to refer to a specific action that has been previously mentioned or is understood in context. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It functions primarily to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity in writing, and it's appropriate for a neutral register. While it appears most frequently in news and media, encyclopedias, and science, be mindful of overuse in close proximity, opting for synonyms to maintain engaging and clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the aforementioned action

Replaces "that" with a more formal term, emphasizing a previously mentioned action.

the specific action

Highlights the action's distinct nature.

this particular action

Emphasizes the action being discussed.

the decision made

Focuses on the act of deciding, rather than the action itself.

the measure taken

Highlights the action as a step taken to achieve something.

the step performed

Emphasizes the execution of a task.

the activity carried out

A more formal way of referring to an action.

the process executed

Focuses on the action as a series of steps.

the operation conducted

Suggests a more planned or methodical action.

the intervention implemented

Emphasizes an action taken to influence a situation.

FAQs

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

Use "that action" to refer to a specific action previously mentioned or understood in the context. For instance, "The company implemented a new policy. That action led to increased employee satisfaction."

What are some alternatives to "that action"?

You can use alternatives such as "the aforementioned action", "the specific action", or "the decision made" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "that action"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "that action", especially when it logically follows a previous statement. However, ensure it connects smoothly and doesn't sound disjointed.

How does "that action" differ from "this action"?

"That action" typically refers to something already mentioned, creating a distance from the current point. "This action" usually refers to something about to happen or something in the immediate context, indicating closeness and immediacy.