that feeds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that feeds" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that provides nourishment, sustenance, or support to another entity or concept. Example: "The garden is a sanctuary that feeds both the body and the soul with its vibrant plants and flowers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Sometimes from the hand that feeds them.

The New Yorker

Don't bite the hand that feeds you".

The New York Times

Art bites the hand that feeds it.

The Guardian

He is the hand that feeds.

The Guardian - Film

We're providing something that feeds the spirit.

The Guardian

That is the momentum that feeds them.

The New York Times - Sports

He's biting the hand that feeds him".

The New York Times

The grain that feeds the cows is subsidized.

The New Yorker

No more unashamedly biting the hand that feeds.

Independent

The vacuum generates a gloom that feeds upon itself.

Independent

Vienna is now a city that feeds on its past.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that feeds", ensure the subject clearly benefits from the object. For example, "a project that feeds innovation" is more impactful than "a project that feeds paperwork".

Common error

Avoid using "that feeds" when the connection is tenuous or indirect. For example, instead of "a policy that feeds economic growth" (when the policy's impact is minimal), consider a stronger verb like "drives" or "stimulates".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "that feeds" is to introduce a relative clause, modifying a noun or pronoun. It indicates the provision of sustenance, support, or fuel. As shown in Ludwig's examples, this relative clause often describes a source or mechanism.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that feeds" functions as a relative clause, describing the source of sustenance, support, or energy. As Ludwig AI's analysis shows, it is grammatically correct and very commonly used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral in tone, its formality can vary. Related phrases like "that nourishes" or "that sustains" offer nuanced alternatives. Remember to ensure a clear and direct connection between the subject and object when using "that feeds" to maximize its impact. The analysis underscores its importance for clarifying relationships of provision and support in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that nourishes

Focuses on providing essential elements for growth and well-being, emphasizing a nurturing aspect.

that sustains

Highlights the ability to maintain or prolong something's existence, indicating ongoing support.

that fuels

Suggests providing energy or impetus, emphasizing the activation and continuation of a process.

that supplies

Indicates the provision of necessary resources or materials, focusing on the act of giving.

that supports

Emphasizes the act of upholding or assisting, highlighting a structural or bolstering role.

that contributes to

Focuses on playing a part in a larger outcome or effect, emphasizing participation.

that fosters

Suggests the encouragement of growth or development, highlighting a nurturing environment.

that cultivates

Emphasizes careful development or refinement, indicating intentional growth.

that bolsters

Highlights the strengthening or reinforcement of something, indicating added support.

that underpins

Focuses on providing a foundational basis, indicating essential support.

FAQs

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

Use "that feeds" to describe something providing sustenance, support, or energy to a subject. For instance, "a culture that feeds creativity" or "a stream that feeds the lake".

What are some alternatives to "that feeds"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "that nourishes", "that sustains", or "that fuels".

Is it correct to say "that feeds into" instead of "that feeds"?

While "that feeds" directly implies providing sustenance or support, "that feeds into" suggests contributing to something larger or more complex. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize direct support or contribution to a broader outcome.

What's the difference between "that feeds" and "that nourishes"?

"That feeds" is a general term for providing sustenance or support, while "that nourishes" specifically implies providing elements essential for growth and well-being. "Nourishes" carries a stronger connotation of care and essential provision.