things like that

USAGE SUMMARY

"things like that" is a correct and useful phrase in written English.
You can use it to link similarly-conceived ideas or to refer to an example you have just mentioned. For example: I'm worried about what will happen if I don't get the job; things like that are always a concern.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Playful things like that.

The New York Times

He did things like that.

The New York Times

Sometimes, things like that happen".

The New York Times - Sports

So things like that.

Cornell University

New things like that.

Harvard Business Review

Rudimentary things like that.

The Washington Post

So they're doing things like that.

Independent

If they still do things like that.

Independent

You can't avoid things like that.

Independent

Have manners and things like that.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

And they give them leaflets and things liked that.

BMC Health Services Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "things like that", ensure the context provides sufficient clarity, as the phrase relies on shared understanding to be effective.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "things like that", as it can make your writing seem imprecise. Replace it with specific examples when clarity is crucial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "things like that" functions as a generalizing expression, allowing speakers and writers to refer to a set of similar items or concepts without explicitly listing them all. Ludwig confirms its widespread use, appearing in diverse sources to indicate related examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Academia

23%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "things like that" serves as a versatile phrase for referring to a range of similar items or concepts without explicit enumeration. While considered grammatically correct and very common across various contexts—including news, academia, and general conversation—Ludwig AI confirms that it should be used judiciously to avoid vagueness. For more formal writing, consider alternatives like "related matters" or "similar instances". Over all, "things like that" is used to imply similarity and avoid unnecessary detail, creating a sense of shared understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stuff like that

Replaces "things" with a more informal synonym, "stuff".

something like that

Shifts from plural to singular, implying a single instance as representative.

and so on

Indicates continuation of a similar pattern or list.

and such

Similar to "and so on", but often used in a more casual context.

and the like

A more formal alternative to "and so on".

or similar items

Explicitly refers to items of a comparable nature.

similar instances

Highlights comparable occurrences or events.

analogous situations

Focuses on comparable circumstances or scenarios.

related matters

Broadly refers to connected or associated subjects.

similar cases

Emphasizes comparable examples or precedents.

FAQs

How can I use "things like that" in a sentence?

"Things like that" is often used to refer to examples that are similar to what you've just mentioned. For instance, "I enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and "things like that"".

What are some alternatives to using "things like that"?

Depending on the context, you can replace "things like that" with phrases such as "and so on", "and the like", or "stuff like that".

Is it appropriate to use "things like that" in formal writing?

While "things like that" is widely understood, it's generally considered informal. In formal writing, opt for more precise alternatives such as "related matters" or "similar instances".

What's the difference between "stuff like that" and "things like that"?

The phrases "stuff like that" and "things like that" are largely interchangeable, but "stuff like that" is generally considered even more informal. Use "things like that" in neutral context or "stuff like that" in casual contexts.