they are kind of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they are kind of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to express that someone is partially or somewhat something. For example, "They are kind of strange."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

'They are kind of like family".

The New York Times

They are kind of killing it lately.

The New York Times

"They are kind of a mental thing".

The New York Times - Sports

"You know, they are kind of lazy.

The New York Times

But then they are kind of different.

The New York Times - Magazine

They are kind of a Siamese couple.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

The bottom line is that they are totally not worth the $39.99 price even if they are kind-of comfortable.

TechCrunch

They're kind of everywhere.

The New York Times

They were kind of shellshocked".

The New York Times - Sports

"They're kind of kissing.

The New York Times - Arts

"They're kind of immature".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "they are kind of" to soften a statement or express a degree of uncertainty or approximation. This makes your language less assertive and more nuanced, especially in informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid overuse of "they are kind of", as it can make your writing sound vague and indecisive. Opt for more precise language when possible to strengthen your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they are kind of" functions as a qualifier or hedge, softening a statement or expressing an approximation. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use to indicate a degree of similarity, quality, or state without fully committing to it. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "they are kind of" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to express approximation, uncertainty, or mild characterization. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. Predominantly found in news and media sources, it serves as a qualifier, softening statements and allowing for nuanced opinions. While useful, it's essential to avoid overuse to maintain clarity and precision in writing. Related phrases like "they are somewhat" or "they are quite" can offer more formal or emphatic alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they're somewhat

This alternative maintains a similar level of informality but offers a slightly more concise phrasing.

they are somewhat

This alternative offers a similar level of formality but offers a slightly more concise phrasing.

they're rather

This phrase conveys a slightly more formal tone than the original while expressing a similar degree of approximation.

they are quite

This alternative implies a slightly stronger degree of the characteristic being described.

they are a bit

This option is slightly more informal and emphasizes a small degree of the characteristic.

they are vaguely

This phrase suggests a less distinct or clear quality than the original.

they are essentially

This option conveys a stronger sense of equivalence or fundamental nature.

they are in some ways

This phrase highlights that the similarity is limited to certain aspects.

they more or less

This alternative emphasizes that the statement is generally true but not perfectly accurate.

they're bordering on

This alternative implies that they are close to possessing a particular quality.

FAQs

What does "they are kind of" mean?

The phrase "they are kind of" indicates that something possesses a quality to a certain extent, but not fully or definitively. It suggests a degree of approximation or similarity.

How can I use "they are kind of" in a sentence?

You can use "they are kind of" to soften a statement, express uncertainty, or indicate a partial resemblance. For instance, "They are kind of similar, but not exactly the same."

Which is correct, "they are kind of" or "they are sort of"?

Both "they are kind of" and "they are sort of" are grammatically correct and used to express a similar meaning. The choice often depends on personal preference or the specific context.

What are some alternatives to "they are kind of"?

Alternatives to "they are kind of" include "they are somewhat", "they are quite", or "they are a bit", depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis.