thing to him

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "thing to him" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an action, idea, or object that is significant or relevant to a male individual. Example: "I didn't realize how much that project meant to him; it was a big thing to him."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

That's the only important thing to him".

The New York Times - Sports

"I don't have to say a thing to him.

The New York Times - Sports

None of that means a thing to him.

The New York Times - Sports

Has Dusty ever done the same thing to him?

The Guardian

That was the most important thing to him.

The New York Times - Arts

I want so much to be able to say the same thing to him now.

The New York Times

After Mr. Obama took office, Republicans did the same thing to him.

The New York Times

She doesn't say any sweet thing to him or even touch him today.

The New Yorker

"He doesn't have that sort of dour, he-man thing to him," Mr. Fine said.

The New York Times

He once told me that the most important thing to him is to please people.

The New York Times - Magazine

Wittgenstein had only said one thing to him: "Do you know where the milk is?" Dummett did not know.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "thing to him", ensure the context clearly indicates what the "thing" refers to. Avoid ambiguity by providing sufficient context or using a more specific noun phrase.

Common error

While grammatically sound, "thing to him" can sometimes sound vague or informal. In formal writing, consider replacing it with more precise alternatives like "important factor for him" or "significant element for him" to enhance clarity and sophistication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "thing to him" functions as a prepositional phrase, often serving as an adverbial modifier. It typically modifies a verb or adjective, indicating the importance or relevance of something to a male individual. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "thing to him" is a common and grammatically sound way to express the importance or relevance of something to a male individual. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It's frequently used in news and media contexts. While versatile, it's crucial to ensure clarity by providing sufficient context for the "thing" being referenced and considering more formal alternatives in professional writing. Understanding the nuances of this phrase allows for effective communication across various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

matter to him

Focuses on the significance or importance something holds for him.

important to him

Highlights the importance or value he places on something.

significant to him

Emphasizes the noteworthiness or relevance for him.

means a lot to him

Indicates that something has substantial emotional value.

is meaningful to him

Highlights the depth of personal connection or relevance.

is relevant to him

Focuses on the pertinence or applicability to his situation.

is of consequence to him

Stresses the importance or potential impact on him.

is crucial to him

Highlights that something is essential or vital for him.

is paramount to him

Emphasizes that something is of the highest importance.

is essential to him

Focuses on the indispensable nature or necessity for him.

FAQs

How can I use "thing to him" in a sentence?

You can use "thing to him" to describe something that is important or meaningful to a male individual. For example: "Success in his career was the most important "thing to him".".

What can I say instead of "thing to him"?

Alternatives include "matter to him", "important to him", or "significant to him", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to specify the gender when using phrases like "thing to him"?

Yes, the phrase "thing to him" specifically refers to a male individual. For a female individual, you would use "thing to her". To be gender-neutral, rephrase using terms like "important factor" or "relevant aspect".

Which is correct, "the most important thing to him" or "the most important thing for him"?

"The most important "thing to him"" indicates what he values, while "the most important thing for him" suggests what is beneficial or necessary for him. The choice depends on the intended meaning.