that particular thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that particular thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to specify or emphasize a specific item or concept in a discussion or explanation. Example: "I don't understand why you are so focused on that particular thing when there are more important issues at hand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

But there is someone on this planet who can find something interesting in that particular thing.

The New York Times - Magazine

There aren't thousands of people who can do that particular thing - there are very few.

The Guardian - Business

"All of these little things — they say, 'Well, I didn't like this particular thing or that particular thing.' Get serious.

The New York Times

Mocking as easy a test meant to detect that particular thing is as dumb as mocking someone for passing a blood test.

The Washington Post

And if you can block out everything else, you might be able to focus on that particular thing that you are looking for".

The New York Times

Paul's explanation is more broadly historical but no more flattering: "There's this something that takes off where it catches the conscience and the heart of men and they move, like lemmings, to what that particular thing is.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

This works out how likely it is that particular things such as behavioural traits co-occur.

The Economist

Are we, then, to conclude that particular things are determined by Necessities rooted in Nature and by the sequence of causes, and that everything is as good as anything can be?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Furthermore, medieval thinkers also agreed that particular things have certain features which the human mind is able to comprehend in a universal fashion, and signify by means of universal terms.

SEP

After her mum's death, she finds one of her hankies in a drawer and smells "that inexpressible particular thing, that molecule mix".

The Guardian - Books

We're not just identified as men; we're identified as particular types of men that do particular things in the playground.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that particular thing" to clearly distinguish a specific item from others in a discussion, enhancing clarity and focus.

Common error

Avoid using "that particular thing" excessively in formal contexts. Opt for more precise and professional alternatives like "that specific aspect" or "that certain element" to maintain a sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that particular thing" functions as a demonstrative phrase, singling out a specific item, concept, or action from a broader set. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is correct and usable in written English to specify or emphasize a specific item or concept in a discussion.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that particular thing" is a versatile phrase used to highlight a specific item or concept in a discussion. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for various contexts, especially in news, media, and general writing. While very common, it's best to avoid overusing it in overly formal writing, instead opting for options like "that specific item" or "that certain aspect". By understanding its function and register, you can effectively use "that particular thing" to add clarity and focus to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that specific item

Replaces "particular" with "specific", emphasizing precision.

that certain aspect

Focuses on a specific feature or element.

that precise detail

Highlights the exactness of the item being referred to.

that very object

Emphasizes the specific object in question.

that individual case

Draws attention to a single instance.

that unique element

Stresses the distinctiveness of the element.

that special feature

Highlights a notable characteristic.

that exact point

Focuses on a specific argument or idea.

that isolated incident

Points to a single, separate occurrence.

that defined characteristic

Highlights a specific, identifying attribute.

FAQs

How can I use "that particular thing" in a sentence?

"That particular thing" is used to emphasize or specify something already mentioned or understood in the context. For example: "I don't understand why you are so focused on "that particular thing" when there are more important issues at hand."

What are some alternatives to "that particular thing"?

You can use alternatives like "that specific item", "that certain aspect", or "that precise detail" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "that particular thing" or should I use another phrase?

The phrase "that particular thing" is correct and usable in written English. However, the best choice depends on the context and desired level of formality. In formal writing, consider alternatives like "that specific item".

What's the difference between "that particular thing" and "that specific thing"?

While both phrases are similar, "that specific thing" ("that specific thing") emphasizes exactness and precision more strongly than "that particular thing", which can simply indicate a certain item among others.