things like this

USAGE SUMMARY

"things like this" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to refer to either concrete items, or to refer to more abstract qualities or ideas. For example, "We must strive to make the world a better place through small acts of kindness - things like this."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Things like this happened.

The New Yorker

"Things like this happen.

The New York Times

"Things like this cannot happen".

The New York Times - Sports

Things like this shouldn't happen.

Independent

Things like this do happen.

Independent

Things like this have happened before.

The New York Times - Sports

But things like this happen in football.

Independent

Why do people do things like this?

The New Yorker

"I understand that things like this happen".

The New York Times - Sports

We are hungry for things like this.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Things [like this] have happened numerous times.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "things like this" when referring to a range of items, events, or situations without explicitly listing them all. It's useful for generalizing from specific examples.

Common error

While "things like this" is widely understood, avoid using it excessively in formal writing. Opt for more specific language to enhance clarity and precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "things like this" functions as a general reference, allowing speakers and writers to allude to a set of items, events, or situations without explicitly listing them. As Ludwig AI notes, it's usable in written English for concrete items and abstract qualities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Academia

21%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "things like this" is a versatile phrase used to refer to a range of similar items, events, or situations. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. While commonly found in news and media, as well as academic contexts, it's important to consider the level of formality required for your writing and adjust your language accordingly. Alternatives such as "similar occurrences" or "such events" may be more suitable in formal settings. Remember to use the phrase judiciously to maintain clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

such events

Replaces "things" with "events", focusing on occurrences rather than items.

similar occurrences

Focuses on the occurrence aspect, implying that similar events have happened before.

comparable items

Focuses specifically on the items being compared, rather than the overall situation.

parallel cases

Stresses the parallel nature of different scenarios.

comparable situations

Emphasizes the situational similarity rather than the specific items involved.

similar matters

Replaces "things" with "matters", which is more abstract, referring to general issues.

related incidents

Emphasizes the incident aspect, implying a connection between different events.

analogous instances

Highlights the analogy between different cases, suggesting a structural similarity.

corresponding examples

Highlights that similar situations serve as examples for a broader point.

akin instances

Uses "akin" to suggest a close relationship or similarity between different occurrences.

FAQs

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

You can use "things like this" to refer to a group of similar items or situations without listing them individually. For example, "We need more support for families, "things like this" can be expensive".

What are some alternatives to "things like this"?

Alternatives include "similar occurrences", "comparable situations", or "such events", depending on the specific context.

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

While grammatically correct, "things like this" may be considered too informal for academic or professional writing. More precise and descriptive language is generally preferred.

What does "things like this" typically refer to?

"Things like this" usually refers to a set of items, events, or issues that share common characteristics or fall under a similar category. The specific meaning depends on the context in which it's used.