the catch is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the catch is" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a hidden drawback or condition in a situation or offer. Example: "The job offer sounds great, but the catch is that you have to relocate to another city."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The catch is small, and market regulars are catching on.

The New York Times - Food

About half of the catch is exported.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Most of the catch is consumed locally.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The catch is that it's expensive.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The catch is that it's illegal.

The New York Times

The catch is that the presumption automativally negates itself.

The New Yorker

The catch is that the apartments never really become yours.

The New York Times

Much of the catch is dried, salted, or smoked.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The catch is it lasts only two years.

The New York Times

Fiona Sampson's 'The Catch' is published by Chatto in February.

Independent

The catch is that no laws are on the books!

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the catch is", ensure that the subsequent explanation clearly identifies the unexpected or less desirable aspect of the situation being described. Be direct and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "the catch is" without providing a specific and understandable explanation immediately afterward. A vague 'catch' can leave the reader confused and detract from your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the catch is" functions as an idiomatic expression used to introduce a significant, often negative, condition or drawback that might not be immediately apparent. Ludwig confirms its widespread use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the catch is" is a widely used phrase to introduce a hidden condition, drawback, or unexpected element in a situation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various sources, predominantly in News & Media. While often implying a negative aspect, it essentially highlights a consideration that needs attention. When employing this phrase, clarity is key; ensure the 'catch' itself is clearly defined to avoid confusion. Consider alternatives like "the drawback is" or "the problem is" for nuanced emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the problem is

Replaces 'catch' with 'problem', emphasizing the negative aspect.

the drawback is

Substitutes 'catch' with 'drawback', highlighting a disadvantage.

the condition is

Replaces 'catch' with 'condition', focusing on a stipulation.

the limitation is

Substitutes 'catch' with 'limitation', stressing a restriction.

the issue is

Replaces 'catch' with 'issue', pointing out a potential difficulty.

the snag is

Uses 'snag' instead of 'catch', implying a hidden obstacle.

the hitch is

Substitutes 'catch' with 'hitch', suggesting a minor problem.

the rub is

Uses 'rub' instead of 'catch', highlighting a point of difficulty.

the difficulty lies in

Replaces the entire phrase with a more descriptive explanation of where the challenge exists.

however, there's a downside

Introduces the caveat with 'however' and 'downside' for a more explicit contrast.

FAQs

How can I use "the catch is" in a sentence?

You can use "the catch is" to introduce a hidden drawback or condition. For example, "The salary is great, but "the catch is" that you have to work long hours."

What's a more formal alternative to "the catch is"?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "the drawback is", "the limitation is", or "the condition is".

Is "the catch is" always negative?

While "the catch is" typically introduces a negative aspect or drawback, it can also highlight an unexpected condition that might not necessarily be negative, but requires consideration. For example "The apartment is free, but "the catch is" you have to take care of the owner's cat."

What's the difference between "the catch is" and "the problem is"?

"The catch is" implies a hidden or unexpected condition, while "the problem is" directly indicates an existing issue or obstacle. "The catch is" often reveals something previously unknown, while "the problem is" addresses a known difficulty.