things like these

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "things like these" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an unspecified group of items or ideas. For example, "My aunt collects all kinds of interesting things like these old books and antique jewelry."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

They say things like, "These ­reduced-calorie Ruffles?

The New York Times - Books

And perhaps pharmacists should be saying things like: "These tablets need to be taken every day for you to get the best from them.

BBC

"They say things like, 'These are the security issues today.

The New Yorker

It's never been possible to control things like these.

The Guardian - Opinion

We've got to get these students into these clubs, things like these Lego Mindstorms.

Cornell University

It's things like these that make me excited for the future of technology.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

But if you are a Muslim, then you think about things like these a lot more.

Independent

Things like these may be more important to a musician than technique".

The New Yorker

The Tory script will say things like: "These are the rules.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Things like these prizes and fellowships means that people get to keep writing.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

One mother commented: 'I am trying to give my daughter homemade food that is good for her…but they (grandparents)…when visiting us, always try to buy "outside" food for her…chocolates, chips…things like these…' (FGD 3).

BMJ Open

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "things like these", ensure the context clearly indicates what "these" refers to. Avoid ambiguity by providing specific examples or a clear description of the items you're referencing.

Common error

Avoid using "things like these" without a clear antecedent. Ensure your reader understands what "these" refers to. If the reference is unclear, restate the items or ideas explicitly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "things like these" functions as a general referential phrase, pointing to a collection of items, examples, or concepts. Ludwig shows that it is commonly used to connect a general statement to specific instances or categories. It acts as a bridge between abstraction and concrete examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

20%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Science

11%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "things like these" is a versatile phrase used to refer to a set of previously mentioned or implied items, examples, or concepts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. While prevalent in News & Media, Academia, and Wiki contexts, it's crucial to ensure clarity by providing specific examples or descriptions. For more formal writing, consider alternatives such as "similar items" or "comparable examples". Remember to avoid vague references and always ensure your reader understands what "these" refers to.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

these sorts of things

This alternative is slightly more informal and uses "sorts" to indicate a category.

such items

This phrase uses "such" to indicate that the items are of a particular kind or quality.

items of that kind

This alternative refers to the items as belonging to a specific category or type.

similar items

This alternative focuses on the resemblance between the items being referred to.

comparable items

This phrase suggests that the items can be compared to each other in some way.

similar examples

This phrase highlights the illustrative aspect of the items being referred to.

analogous examples

This phrase emphasizes the similarity between the items, drawing an analogy.

items of this nature

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the characteristics of the items.

this kind of stuff

This phrase is more casual and uses "stuff" to refer to the items in a general way.

related matters

This alternative broadens the scope to include topics or issues connected to the items.

FAQs

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

You can use "things like these" to refer to items or ideas previously mentioned. For example, "I enjoy collecting antiques, "things like these" old clocks and vintage photographs".

What are some alternatives to saying "things like these"?

Alternatives include "similar items", "such items", or "items of this nature", depending on the context and level of formality.

Is it correct to say "things like these" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "things like these" might be considered informal for certain contexts. In formal writing, consider using more precise and descriptive alternatives like "similar items" or "comparable examples".

What's the difference between "things like these" and "things like those"?

"Things like these" typically refers to items or ideas that are physically or conceptually closer to the speaker, while "things like those" refers to items or ideas that are more distant. The choice depends on the context and proximity of the reference.