they intersect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they intersect" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the point at which two or more lines, paths, or concepts meet or cross each other. Example: "In geometry, we learn that parallel lines never intersect, while intersecting lines meet at a specific angle."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Filaments of dark matter stretch across the simulated scene, galaxies forming where they intersect and the dark matter is densest.

The New York Times - Science

At important junctures, they intersect and overlap.

University of California, Berkeley

Himmelman traces these forces as they intersect throughout Brad­lee's life.

The New York Times - Books

And to the degree to which they intersect as well.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Namely, the lines are not parallel, and hence, they intersect.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The material is concentrated in the nearly straight ligaments and in the nodes where they intersect.

International Journal of Solids and Structures

Anderson's great gift is to catch the generations as they intersect.

The New Yorker

And sometimes they intersect neatly with temporary exhibitions, as is the case now.

The New York Times - Arts

This process has only sped the natural cross-pollination of languages whenever they intersect.

The New York Times

Where they intersect is in their success in the Tour de France, and in their comebacks.

The New York Times - Sports

She covers media, social media and celebrity — and the way in which they intersect and collide.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts, ensure that the context clearly establishes what "they" refers to, to avoid ambiguity. For instance, "When cultures and personal values "they intersect", conflicts can arise."

Common error

Avoid using "they intersect" when the subjects are not clearly defined or are too vague. Ensure the subjects have been previously introduced and the relationship between them is clear to the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they intersect" functions as a verb phrase indicating the point at which two or more things meet or cross. This usage is supported by Ludwig and the numerous examples provided, demonstrating its role in describing relationships between various subjects, from lines in geometry to abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Academia

25%

Science

22%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they intersect" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed verb phrase used to depict the point at which two or more entities converge or share a common space. As Ludwig AI confirms, its versatility allows for its use across diverse contexts, including science, news, academia, and general writing. While semantically similar alternatives like "they cross" or "they meet" exist, clarity and precision in defining the subjects are crucial for effective communication. Remember to maintain a neutral register, and always ensure that the context supports the clear understanding of what "they" refers to. The analysis indicates its widespread acceptance and utility in contemporary English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they cross

Focuses on the action of crossing a path or boundary.

they meet

Emphasizes the act of coming together at a specific point.

they converge

Implies coming together from different directions.

they coincide

Highlights the simultaneous occurrence or alignment.

they overlap

Suggests a shared area or element between two things.

they intersect each other

Adds redundancy for emphasis, making the intersection explicit.

they come together

A more general way of describing the action of meeting.

they touch

Focuses on physical contact or proximity.

they link up

Suggests a connection or relationship being formed.

they interface

Implies an interaction or connection between systems or components.

FAQs

How can I use "they intersect" in a sentence?

You can use "they intersect" to describe where two or more things meet or have elements in common. For example, "Their professional lives and personal interests often "they intersect"." Ensure that the subjects are clearly defined.

What can I say instead of "they intersect"?

You can use alternatives like "they cross", "they meet", or "they overlap" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "they intersect"?

It is appropriate to use "they intersect" when you want to emphasize the point at which two or more lines, surfaces, or general things meet or cross. It can apply to physical objects, abstract concepts, or events.

Is "they intersect each other" redundant?

Yes, "they intersect each other" is somewhat redundant because "intersect" already implies a reciprocal action. While not grammatically incorrect, using just "they intersect" is generally more concise.