these machines

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "these machines" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to specific machines that have already been mentioned or are known to the reader. Example: "These machines are designed to improve efficiency in the manufacturing process."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These machines.

The New Yorker

"Now these machines are commonplace".

The New York Times - Tech

How will these machines be regulated?

The New York Times

These machines have expanded my world.

The New Yorker

"[Cole] is one of these machines.

Independent

These machines too were semiautomatic by 1970.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Just how small might these machines be?

The Economist

Typically these machines are differentiated by d.p.i.

The New York Times - Tech

These machines – "friends" – come to the door.

The Guardian - Music

These machines are generally called Beowulf clusters.

The New York Times

Are these machines worth using anyway?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "these machines", ensure the context clearly defines which machines you are referencing. Avoid ambiguity by explicitly stating the type or function of the machines in question.

Common error

Avoid using "these machines" without clear context. If the reader is unfamiliar with the specific machines, provide a brief description or reference to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "these machines" functions as a demonstrative phrase specifying particular machines within a given context. It serves to identify and reference a group of machines previously mentioned or understood by the audience, as evidenced by examples in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "these machines" is a grammatically sound and frequently used demonstrative phrase, as validated by Ludwig. It serves to specifically reference a set of devices understood within a given context. While versatile, clarity is key; ensure the machines are well-defined to avoid ambiguity. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and widespread application across diverse sources like news media, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. By following best practices and avoiding vague references, you can effectively incorporate "these machines" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the aforementioned devices

Formal alternative referring to devices previously mentioned.

the instruments in question

Formal, suitable when discussing specific equipment under consideration.

these units

Neutral alternative, referring to individual pieces of equipment.

these systems

More abstract, referring to interconnected components.

these contraptions

Informal alternative, often implying complexity or quirkiness.

the technological apparatus

Formal and technical, emphasizing the technology involved.

these tools

General alternative, referring to items used for a specific purpose.

these appliances

Suitable when referring to household or office devices.

these mechanisms

Focuses on the mechanical aspects of the devices.

the items at hand

Referring to devices that are currently being used or discussed.

FAQs

How can I replace "these machines" in a sentence to sound more formal?

Consider using phrases such as "the aforementioned devices", "the instruments in question", or "the technological apparatus" for a more formal tone.

What's a less technical way to say "these machines"?

You can use more general terms like "these tools" or "these units" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "these machines" in writing?

"These machines" is appropriate when you've already clearly defined what machines you're referring to and want to avoid repetition. Clarity is key.

Is there a difference between using "these machines" and "those machines"?

Yes, "these machines" generally refers to machines that are nearby or being currently discussed, while "those machines" refers to machines that are further away or were discussed earlier.