that kind

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that kind" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to refer to a specific type or category of something previously mentioned. Example: "I prefer that kind of music over others." Alternative expressions include "that type" and "that sort."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Poor — that kind of means.

The New York Times - Arts

No, not that kind.

The Economist

That kind of day.

The Guardian

That kind of bad.

The New York Times - Books

Yes, that kind -- sexually transmitted.

The New York Times

That kind of fantastic day?

The New York Times - Magazine

It's that kind of place.

The New Yorker

Isn't that kind of dangerous?

The New York Times - Magazine

Not that kind of tired.

The New Yorker

It's that kind of restaurant.

The New Yorker

"He's that kind of player".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that kind" to refer back to a specific type or category already mentioned to maintain clarity and avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "I don't like that," say "I don't like that kind of behavior."

Common error

Avoid using "that kind" without a clear reference point. Instead of saying "Things of that kind are difficult", specify what you're referring to, such as "Challenges of that kind are difficult" to improve clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that kind" functions as a determiner phrase, specifically a demonstrative. It points to a particular type, category, or characteristic already mentioned or understood in the context. As supported by Ludwig, this phrase is used to specify something previously referenced.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that kind" is a versatile phrase used to refer to a previously mentioned type or category. Ludwig AI confirms that its grammatical structure is correct and commonly used, especially in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in register, alternative phrases like "that type" may be more appropriate for formal settings. Pay attention to providing a clear reference for "that kind" to avoid vagueness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that type

Replaces "kind" with "type", offering a slightly more formal alternative.

that sort

Uses "sort" instead of "kind", providing a more colloquial and less precise substitute.

that variety

Substitutes "kind" with "variety", implying a specific range within a broader category.

that manner

Replaces "kind" with "manner", focusing on a particular way of doing something.

that style

Uses "style" to refer to a particular form or design, emphasizing aesthetic qualities.

that nature

Replaces "kind" with "nature", emphasizing the inherent qualities or characteristics.

that character

Uses "character" to highlight distinctive traits or attributes.

that description

Shifts the focus to a specific portrayal or explanation.

something like that

Offers a less precise, more general reference, suitable for informal contexts.

that ilk

Employs "ilk" to refer to a group or category sharing similar characteristics, often with a slightly negative connotation.

FAQs

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

"That kind" is used to refer to a specific type or category previously mentioned. For example, "I enjoy classical music. I especially like composers of "that kind"."

What's a more formal way to say "that kind"?

For a more formal alternative, consider using "that type" or "that variety". These options provide a similar meaning but are often perceived as more refined.

Is it okay to use "that kinda" instead of "that kind"?

While "that kinda" is sometimes used in informal speech, it is generally not appropriate for formal writing. Stick to ""that kind"" in professional or academic contexts.

What is the difference between "that kind" and "that sort"?

While "that kind" and "that sort" are often interchangeable, "that kind" may imply a more specific or defined category, whereas "that sort" can be slightly more general or vague.