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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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the below item

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the below item" is not standard in written English; it is better to use "the item below." You can use it when referring to something that is listed or described further down in the text.
Example: "Please review the item below for further details on the project requirements."

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Update: The below item originally reported the rumor spread by Rush Limbaugh that George W. and Laura Bush voted for Hillary Clinton.

News & Media

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

You do not need all of the below items used to remove the odor, only the one that is easier for you to find when needed.

If you happen to disagree over an item of clothing, read the below: YOUR ITEM: Mum Says: "Its too flimsy/Short/old/the material is cheap/its too expensive," You say: "Do you think so?

We prove below item (ii).

"We're conditioned to look for the price on the shelf below the item.

Please see the below list for items you might need for wound care if your friend/loved one, does not require emergency medical attention at a hospital.

50 The linear and cumulative shelf space will be captured using a measuring wheel along the floor directly below the item.

Science

BMJ Open

Conversely, if they are located below the item, the likelihood of answering the item correctly decreases.

*All questions except 6a and 6b were Likert scales anchored from 1 to 7 with 1 representing the alternative seen left in brackets below the item and 7 as the alternative seen right in brackets below the item.

A bright red notice below the item reads, "UNFORTUNATELY THIS ITEM HAS SOLD OUT.

News & Media

Huffington Post

Place a piece of double-sided tape below the item and at the edge of the side panel.

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Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the below item", ensure it clearly refers to a specific item that is visually or structurally located beneath the reference. This prevents ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "the below item" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for alternatives like "the following item" or "the item listed below" for a more polished and professional tone.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

74%

Authority and reliability

3.8/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the below item" functions as a determiner phrase, specifically highlighting a noun (item) located lower in the text or display. This directs the reader's attention and establishes a spatial relationship between the text and the referred item. Ludwig highlights that the phrase is acceptable but may be considered awkward.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Wiki

33%

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the below item" is a phrase used to direct attention to something listed or described further down in a text. While grammatically acceptable, Ludwig indicates it can sound awkward and less polished compared to alternatives like "the following item" or "the item listed below". Usage contexts span across news, wikis, and scientific articles, but its informality makes it less suited for highly formal or academic writing. For improved clarity and professionalism, consider using more precise and stylistically appropriate alternatives.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "the below item"?

You can use alternatives such as "the following item", "the item listed below", or "the subsequent item" depending on the context.

Is "the below item" grammatically correct?

While understandable, "the below item" is not considered as polished as alternatives like "the item below" or "the following item." Ludwig AI suggests it may sound awkward in some contexts.

When is it appropriate to use "the below item"?

It is appropriate when you want to specifically direct the reader's attention to an item that is physically located below the current text. However, consider using more formal alternatives in professional or academic settings.

How can I make my writing sound more formal when referring to items listed below?

Use phrases like "the item listed below", "the subsequent item", or "the aforementioned item" for a more formal tone.

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Source & Trust

74%

Authority and reliability

3.8/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: