this describes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this describes" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to explain or clarify what something represents or illustrates. Example: "The data collected from the survey is significant because this describes the trends in consumer behavior over the past year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This describes Weegee perfectly.

The New York Times

This describes EPAM I.

Stanford University

None of this describes Moore.

The Washington Post

This describes a gender relationship.

MIT Technology Review

This describes most of my career.

The Guardian - Opinion

This describes my own friend, Klas.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This describes her swimming life too.

The Guardian - Books

What to do if this describes your place?

The New York Times

This describes "an extremely uneven distribution" of unaccompanied minors.

The Guardian

None of this describes the world we're in right now.

The Guardian - Business

If this describes you, please share your experiences below.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the subject referenced by "this" is immediately clear to avoid ambiguity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "this describes" when the connection between "this" and what it refers to is not immediately apparent to the reader. Always ensure clarity to prevent misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this describes" primarily functions as a linking device to connect a preceding statement or concept with a subsequent explanation or characteristic. As shown by Ludwig, the phrase often introduces details that elaborate on the subject at hand, providing clarity and context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Academia

24%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this describes" functions as a linking phrase used to connect a subject with its characteristics or explanation. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, especially in News & Media and Academic sources. For alternatives, consider using phrases like "this illustrates", "this exemplifies", or "this represents". When using the phrase, ensure that the connection to the preceding subject is clear to avoid any ambiguity. This clarity reinforces the effectiveness of your communication, whether in formal writing or casual conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this illustrates

Focuses on providing a visual or concrete example.

this exemplifies

Highlights something as a typical example of a broader category.

this defines

Emphasizes the act of setting boundaries or characteristics.

this characterizes

Focuses on identifying the distinct traits or features of something.

this represents

Indicates a symbolic or figurative connection.

this embodies

Suggests that something is a perfect example of a quality or idea.

this mirrors

Implies a close resemblance or reflection of something else.

this reflects

Indicates that something shows or demonstrates a particular quality.

this indicates

Focuses on pointing out something as evidence or a sign.

this portrays

Emphasizes the way something is depicted or represented.

FAQs

How can I use "this describes" in a sentence?

Use "this describes" to link a previously mentioned concept or situation with a detailed explanation or characteristic. For example, "The symptoms include fever and fatigue; this describes the onset of the illness".

What are some alternatives to "this describes"?

You can use alternatives like "this illustrates", "this exemplifies", or "this represents" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "this describes" or "that describes"?

Both "this describes" and "that describes" are grammatically correct, but "this describes" typically refers to something closer in context or more recently mentioned, while "that describes" refers to something further away or previously established.

When is it inappropriate to use "this describes"?

Avoid using "this describes" when the connection between "this" and what you're describing is unclear or ambiguous. Ensure there's a direct and obvious link to prevent confusion.