the message that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'the message that' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce a clause that further explains what the message is. For example, "She received the message that she had been accepted."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We have to keep on the message that we carry".

The Guardian

We hear the message that has been sent".

The Guardian

"The message that comes from them is real.

The New York Times

It was the message that would change his life.

The Guardian - Sport

That is the message that should be taught in schools.

The Guardian

But that's not the message that came through.

Forbes

The message that actually got sent out was "What's up!".

TechCrunch

The message that was returned was "inactivity timeout".

TechCrunch

I didn't like the message that sent my daughter".

Los Angeles Times

Michaud has gotten the message that running clean works.

Huffington Post

Think about the message that would send to our enemies!

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "the message that", ensure the following clause provides specific details about the message's content. This adds clarity and prevents vagueness.

Common error

Avoid using "the message that" when a more direct statement is possible. Overusing this phrase can make your writing sound verbose. Ask yourself, "Can I state this information more directly?"

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the message that" functions as a connector, introducing a subordinate clause that specifies the content of a message. It serves to clarify what was communicated. As Ludwig confirms, this structure is correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

15%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "the message that" is a grammatically correct and frequently used construction for introducing the specific content of a communication. According to Ludwig, this phrase is a valid way to introduce a clause. It appears most commonly in news and media, wiki, and science-related contexts. When writing, be mindful of potential wordiness, and ensure that the subsequent clause clearly and directly conveys the intended information. Consider alternatives like "the signal that" or "the indication that" for nuanced meanings. Proper usage prevents ambiguity and enhances clarity, making it a versatile tool in both formal and informal writing. With its widespread application and clear function, "the message that" remains a valuable part of the English language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the signal that

Replaces "message" with "signal", implying a less verbal and more indicative form of communication.

the indication that

Substitutes "message" with "indication", focusing on something suggesting a particular fact or state.

the implication that

Uses "implication" instead of "message", highlighting something suggested though not explicitly expressed.

the idea that

Replaces "message" with "idea", focusing on a thought or concept being conveyed.

the information that

Substitutes "message" with "information", emphasizing factual content being communicated.

the impression that

Uses "impression" instead of "message", suggesting a feeling or perception conveyed.

the understanding that

Replaces "message" with "understanding", focusing on a shared comprehension.

the communication that

Substitutes "message" with "communication", referring to the act of conveying information.

the announcement that

Uses "announcement" instead of "message", highlighting a formal declaration.

the news that

Replaces "message" with "news", focusing on recently received or noteworthy information.

FAQs

How can I use "the message that" in a sentence?

Use "the message that" to introduce a clause that clarifies the specific content of the message. For example, "The email conveyed "the message that" the meeting was postponed."

What are some alternatives to "the message that"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "the signal that", "the indication that", or "the announcement that" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it redundant to use "the message that"?

While not inherently redundant, "the message that" can sometimes lead to wordiness. Ensure that its use adds clarity rather than unnecessary length. If a more direct statement works, prefer that.

What's the difference between "the message that" and "the information that"?

While similar, "the message that" implies a deliberate communication, whereas "the information that" simply refers to factual content, regardless of intent. Choose the phrase that best reflects the context.