that system

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that system" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a specific system that has already been mentioned or is understood in the context. Example: "The efficiency of that system has improved significantly over the past year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That system could spread.

The Economist

Nasdaq operates that system.

The New York Times

Why not jettison that system?

The New York Times

That system should be reformed.

The Economist

"That system is not breached.

Independent

That system was recently binned.

The Economist

There are three stars in that system.

The New York Times - Science

That system badly needs a new impetus.

The Economist

In that system, everybody understands his role".

The New York Times - Sports

That system was still functioning, he said.

The New York Times

How does that system stack up?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that system", ensure the context clearly identifies the system being referenced to avoid ambiguity. For example, first introduce the system with a specific name or description, and then use "that system" in subsequent sentences to refer back to it.

Common error

Avoid using "that system" without establishing a clear reference point. If the system hasn't been explicitly defined or is not readily apparent from the context, readers may struggle to understand what you're referring to, leading to confusion.

Linguistic Context

That system functions as a determiner phrase followed by a noun, primarily acting as a reference to a previously mentioned or understood system. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in numerous contexts, signifying its role in referring to a specific entity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

0.5%

Reference

0.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that system" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression used to reference a previously identified system. As Ludwig AI indicates, its primary function is to maintain coherence in writing and speech by avoiding unnecessary repetition. The phrase is most commonly found in News & Media, although it is suitable for neutral and professional contexts as well. To ensure clarity, it's best practice to clearly define the system being referred to before using "that system". Alternatives include "the aforementioned system" and "the specific system".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the aforementioned system

Replaces "that" with "aforementioned", creating a more formal tone and explicitly referencing a system previously mentioned.

the specific system

Emphasizes the particularity of the system being discussed, highlighting its distinct nature.

the indicated system

Implies that the system has been pointed out or identified in some way, either explicitly or implicitly.

the relevant framework

Substitutes "system" with "framework", suggesting a structural or organizational approach.

the existing arrangement

Replaces "system" with "arrangement", focusing on the structured organization already in place.

this particular setup

Uses "setup" instead of "system" to denote a configuration or established way of doing things.

the established methodology

Replaces "system" with "methodology", highlighting the systematic approach used.

the current procedure

Focuses on the process-oriented aspect of the system, using "procedure" as a substitute.

the operational structure

Highlights the functional aspect of the system, emphasizing how it is organized to operate.

the governing approach

Emphasizes the controlling or guiding nature of the system, using "approach" to denote a strategic method.

FAQs

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

Use "that system" to refer back to a system previously mentioned or understood in the context. For example, "We implemented a new tracking process. That system has significantly improved our efficiency".

What can I say instead of "that system"?

You can use alternatives like "the aforementioned system", "the specific system", or "the indicated system" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "that system" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "that system" when you want to refer to a specific system that has already been clearly identified and described in the preceding text or is well-understood within the given context.

What's the difference between "that system" and "this system"?

"That system" typically refers to a system that has been previously mentioned or is understood from a distance, while "this system" usually refers to a system that is currently being discussed or is closer in context.