that attach

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that attach" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to items or elements that are connected or fastened to something else. Example: "The documents that attach to the application form must be submitted by the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

There are also snap-on sprayer attachments that attach to your showerhead or faucet.

WikiHow

Other cold smoker attachments are additional compartments that attach to your hot smoker.

WikiHow

The device comes with a detachable keyboard and trackpad that attach magnetically to the tablet.

The Guardian - Tech

It is understanding the issues that attach to places and types of property that counts.

The Guardian - Money

Racks that attach to the back hitch under the bumper are one solution.

The New York Times

The bike has four braces that attach to its frame, each one a tripod.

The New York Times

Prostaglandin analogues are synthetic hormones that attach to natural prostaglandin receptors in the body.

The New York Times

Beyond prostheses, generally we will have robots that attach to our bodies and augment our physicality.

The New York Times - Science

Fleas, lice, and ticks are blood-sucking organisms that attach to the skin.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Rock is a hybrid form, drawing on blues, country, folk and gospel: cultures that attach no stigma to seniority.

The Guardian - Music

"Over time the cells that attach to the scaffold produce enzymes that dissolve it," Dr. Gibson said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "that attach", ensure the noun it modifies is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "components that attach", specify "components that attach to the engine block."

Common error

Avoid using "which attach" when "that attach" is more appropriate. "That" is preferred for restrictive clauses (essential to the sentence's meaning), while "which" is used for non-restrictive clauses (adding extra information). For example, "The parts that attach to the frame are crucial" (essential information) is better than "The parts, which attach to the frame, are crucial" (extra information).

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that attach" functions as a relative clause, specifically a restrictive (or defining) relative clause. It modifies a noun, providing essential information about which specific items are being referred to, as seen in the examples from Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

20%

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that attach" is a grammatically sound and very common relative clause used to specify items connected or joined to something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, though the register is generally neutral. It's crucial to use "that" for restrictive clauses and avoid misusing "which" in such cases. This phrase appears frequently in news media, scientific literature, and wiki articles, highlighting its versatility and broad applicability. Ensure the noun modified by "that attach" is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

which attach

A more formal equivalent using "which" instead of "that".

that connect

Emphasizes a direct link or join between two or more things.

that are linked

Focuses on the relationship or association between elements.

that are affixed

Suggests a more permanent or secure form of attachment.

that are joined

Highlights the act of being united or linked together.

that are fastened

Implies a secure and often mechanical means of attachment.

that are coupled

Suggests a close and often functional connection.

that are bound

Indicates a strong and often inseparable connection.

that adhere

Describes a surface-level attachment, often through sticking.

that are appended

Implies adding something as a supplement or attachment.

FAQs

How do I use "that attach" in a sentence?

Use "that attach" to describe components or elements connected to something else. For example, "The wires "that attach to the battery" need to be properly insulated."

What are some alternatives to "that attach"?

You can use phrases like "that connect", "that are affixed", or "that are linked" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "that attach" or "which attach"?

"That attach" is typically used for restrictive clauses (essential information), while "which attach" is used for non-restrictive clauses (additional information). In most cases, "that attach" is preferred.

Can "that attach" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "that attach" is suitable for formal writing, as it is grammatically correct and widely understood. However, choose synonyms like "that are affixed" for a more sophisticated tone.