this is an art

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is an art" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a particular skill, craft, or creative expression that requires talent or practice. Example: "In the world of photography, capturing the perfect moment is not just a skill; this is an art that takes years to master."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

This is an art.

The New York Times - Magazine

"This is an art, not a science".

The New York Times

This is an art film!

The New York Times

This is an art movie.

The Guardian - Books

"This is an art version that's idealized.

The New Yorker

"This is an art people don't recognize".

The New York Times - Arts

This is an art of fixation.

The Guardian - Arts

"This is an art gallery," she said authoritatively.

The New York Times

This is an art of pastiche in every way.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

This is an art-school record; Ms. Levi's work resists easy pleasure and traditional beauty.

The New York Times - Arts

This is an art-and-tech collective called the Sub, where Hwin has been since 2009.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "this is an art", ensure the context clearly illustrates why the subject is considered an art form, emphasizing the skill, creativity, and nuance involved. Provide specific examples to support your claim and help your audience understand the artistic elements at play.

Common error

Avoid casually labeling everything as "this is an art" without providing a rationale. Ensure that the subject truly possesses artistic qualities that warrant such a designation, and be prepared to articulate those qualities to your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is an art" functions as a declarative statement, asserting that a particular activity, skill, or concept possesses the qualities of art. As indicated by Ludwig, this usage is grammatically correct and prevalent across various domains. The examples provided demonstrate its versatility in describing diverse subjects as art forms.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

11%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

9%

Reference

9%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this is an art" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to elevate the perceived value and complexity of a particular skill, activity, or concept. As confirmed by Ludwig, it suggests that the subject requires creativity, intuition, and a high degree of mastery. While versatile enough for various contexts, it's important to ensure that the subject truly possesses artistic qualities to justify the designation. Ludwig's examples showcase the phrase's prevalence in news media and academic discourse, highlighting its effectiveness in emphasizing the artistry involved in diverse endeavors.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is a form of art

Adds "form of" to explicitly categorize the subject as art.

this is an artistry

Uses the noun form of "artistic", emphasizing the creative expression involved.

this is a subtle art

Adds "subtle" to emphasize the nuanced and delicate nature of the art.

this is a skill

Replaces "art" with "skill", focusing on the technical proficiency involved.

this is pure art

Adds "pure" to intensify the artistic quality and focus.

this is a craft

Substitutes "art" with "craft", highlighting the manual dexterity and tradition associated with the activity.

this embodies artistry

Changes the structure to emphasize that something exhibits the qualities of art.

this is a creative endeavor

Replaces "art" with "creative endeavor", emphasizing the effort and imagination involved.

this is high art

Uses the term 'high art' to denote sophisticated and culturally significant artistic practices

this is an aesthetic practice

Highlights the aesthetic qualities and disciplined approach of the activity.

FAQs

How can I use "this is an art" in a sentence?

You can use "this is an art" to describe a skill or activity that requires creativity, practice, and talent. For example, "Negotiation is not just a business tactic; "this is an art" that requires careful listening and strategic thinking."

What are some alternatives to "this is an art"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "this is a skill", "this is a craft", or "this is an artistry" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "this is an art" in formal writing?

Yes, "this is an art" can be used in formal writing, but ensure that the context and tone are appropriate. It's important to clearly articulate why the subject is being described as an art and provide sufficient justification.

What's the difference between saying "this is an art" and "this is a science"?

Saying "this is an art" implies that the subject relies heavily on creativity, intuition, and personal skill, while saying "this is a science" suggests that the subject is based on empirical evidence, systematic analysis, and objective principles. Farhan admits that "this is an art as well as a science", and that some important data are either not available or "patchy".