these are

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'these are' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to begin a list of items or ideas. For example, "These are the 5 steps I need to take in order to complete the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These are too fussy.

Independent

"These are not idiots.

The New York Times

These are social tasks.

The New Yorker

These are desperate times.

The New Yorker

These are good lessons.

The New Yorker

These are dangerous vessels.

The New York Times

These are real problems.

The New York Times

These are exciting areas".

The New York Times

These are fictions.

The New York Times

(These are not cheap).

The New York Times - Arts

These are unanswered questions".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Be mindful of the register and ensure it aligns with your topic. When writing formally you could opt for more formal alternatives such as "These constitute" instead of "These are".

Common error

Avoid using "this is" when referring to multiple items; use "these are" for plural references. For example, write "These are the reasons" instead of "This is the reasons".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "these are" functions as a demonstrative phrase, introducing or identifying multiple items or concepts. Ludwig examples show its use in providing definitions, explanations, and lists. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

23%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "these are" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to introduce multiple items, concepts, or characteristics. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is correct and widely used in various contexts, from news articles to scientific papers. While generally neutral in register, consider more formal alternatives like ""these constitute"" in professional or academic settings. Be mindful of differentiating its use from the singular "this is". By understanding its function and purpose, you can effectively incorporate "these are" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

here are

Focuses on presenting something immediately available or noticeable.

these represent

Emphasizes the act of symbolizing or standing for something else.

these constitute

Highlights the elements that make up a whole or a defined group.

these include

Indicates a partial list of examples, not necessarily exhaustive.

these consist of

Specifies the components or ingredients that something is made of.

these entail

Suggests that certain consequences or conditions are involved.

these embody

Implies that something is a perfect example or representation of a quality or idea.

these illustrate

Uses examples to clarify or demonstrate a point.

these exemplify

Presents ideal or representative examples of something.

the following are

Introduces a list of items or points that will be mentioned next.

FAQs

How do I use "these are" in a sentence?

Use "these are" to introduce a list of items or describe multiple things. For example, "These are the steps to follow".

What can I say instead of "these are"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "here are", "these include", or "the following are".

When should I use "these are" versus "this is"?

"These are" should be used when referring to multiple items or concepts, while "this is" is for singular items. For instance, "This is my car," but "these are my cars".

Is it formal to use "these are" in academic writing?

Yes, "these are" is perfectly acceptable in academic writing. However, you can also use more formal alternatives like "these constitute" or "these represent" for a more sophisticated tone.