that really counts

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that really counts" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to emphasize what is truly important or significant in a situation. Example: "In the end, it's the effort you put in that really counts." Alternative expressions include "that truly matters" and "that is significant."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That's the one that really counts".

The New York Times - Sports

It wasn't, and that's the failure that really counts.

The New Yorker

"It's the knowledge, not the size, that really counts".

The New York Times

In real estate, it's finishing the project that really counts.

The New York Times

For me, it's the passion for learning that really counts.

The Guardian

But it is the art itself that really counts (though with Picasso, everything counts).

The Guardian - Arts

And while love is the only thing that really counts in a marriage, it is as fickle as snow.

The New York Times

They are adults and they like us, and I think that really counts for a whole lot.

The New York Times

In terms of American domestic politics, of course, there was only one part that really counts in a big way.

The New Yorker

The only collateral that really counts is a borrower's good name.Dubai will now struggle to restore that name.

The Economist

That's the one that really counts.' Ivory Coast are one win away from their first World Cup qualification.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that really counts", ensure it directly relates to the core point you are making. Avoid using it as a filler; instead, use it to underscore the most crucial aspect of your argument or statement.

Common error

While "that really counts" is acceptable in various settings, be mindful of overusing it in highly formal writing. Opt for more sophisticated synonyms like "that is most significant" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that really counts" functions as a relative clause modifying a noun or pronoun, emphasizing a particular aspect as being most important or significant. Ludwig provides examples from various sources illustrating its use in highlighting key elements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that really counts" is a commonly used phrase to emphasize the most important aspect of a situation or argument. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While versatile, it's essential to consider the formality of your writing and choose synonyms like "that is most critical" or "that truly matters" for more formal settings. Remember to use the phrase purposefully to highlight core points rather than as filler, and be mindful of context to maintain appropriate tone and style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that truly matters

Replaces "counts" with "matters", offering a slightly more emphatic tone regarding significance.

that is truly significant

Substitutes "counts" with the adjective "significant", adding a layer of descriptive emphasis.

that holds the most weight

Uses a metaphor to convey importance, suggesting that something is influential or consequential.

that is paramount

Emphasizes supreme importance, suggesting something is crucial or essential.

that is of utmost importance

Highlights the highest level of significance, suitable for formal contexts.

that is most critical

Focuses on the essential nature of something, often used in urgent or decisive situations.

that is the key thing

Simplifies the expression, focusing on the central or crucial aspect.

that is the crux of the matter

Identifies the decisive point or most important aspect of a situation.

that is the bottom line

Conveys the fundamental and non-negotiable aspect of a situation.

that is what is really important

Expands the phrase to explicitly state the quality of being important.

FAQs

How can I use "that really counts" in a sentence?

Use "that really counts" to emphasize the most important aspect of something. For example, "In the end, it's the effort "that really counts"."

What can I say instead of "that really counts"?

You can use alternatives like "that truly matters", "that is most critical", or "that is paramount" depending on the context.

Is "that really counts" formal or informal?

"That really counts" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, for extremely formal writing, you might consider alternatives like "that is of utmost importance".

Which is correct, "what really counts" or "that really counts"?

Both phrases are correct but serve different functions. "What really counts" refers to the thing or things that are important, while "that really counts" emphasizes a specific aspect or element as being most important.