this is kind of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is kind of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a degree of uncertainty or to soften a statement, often when introducing a subjective opinion or description. Example: "This is kind of a challenging problem, but I believe we can solve it together."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This is kind of exciting".

The New York Times - Arts

This is kind of crazy.

The New York Times

"And this is kind of the ultimate".

The New Yorker

This is kind of a new thing.

The New Yorker

"This is kind of a cool idea.

The New York Times - Health

"This is kind of like our playground".

The New York Times - Arts

And this is kind of what happened.

The Guardian

"This is kind of the same thing.

The New York Times - Travel

This is kind of where he belongs".

The New York Times - Sports

"This is kind of a unique situation".

The New York Times

"I thought, 'This is kind of interesting.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is kind of" to soften potentially harsh statements or introduce subjective opinions, making your communication more approachable. For example, instead of saying "This movie is bad", try "This is kind of a bad movie".

Common error

Avoid using "this is kind of" excessively, as it can make your writing sound hesitant or uncertain. Opt for more direct language when appropriate to convey confidence and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is kind of" functions as a qualifier, softening the statement that follows. It indicates a degree of approximation or subjectivity. Ludwig examples show its use in expressing opinions or describing situations with a nuanced perspective. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is perfectly usable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

11%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this is kind of" is a common and grammatically sound qualifier used to soften statements and express uncertainty. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in English. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts but should be used judiciously in formal writing. To avoid overuse, consider alternatives like "this is somewhat" or "this is a bit". While "this is kind of" is a versatile phrase, maintaining clarity and avoiding excessive hedging are crucial for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is sort of

Nearly interchangeable with "this is kind of", offering a similar level of informality.

this is somewhat

Indicates a slightly lesser degree or intensity than "this is kind of".

this is a bit

Similar in meaning to "this is kind of", but slightly less formal.

this is rather

More formal and slightly stronger than "this is kind of".

this is quite

Implies a slightly higher degree than "this is kind of".

this is fairly

Suggests a moderate degree, similar to "this is kind of" in its qualification.

this is vaguely

Indicates an indefinite or unclear quality, adding a sense of ambiguity.

this is almost

Suggests something is close to being a certain way but not entirely.

this is nearly

Similar to "this is almost", indicating something is approaching a state.

this is reasonably

Indicates a moderate level of something, implying a judgment of acceptability.

FAQs

How can I use "this is kind of" in a sentence?

Use "this is kind of" to soften statements or express uncertainty. For example, "This is kind of a big deal" or "This is kind of what I expected".

What phrases are similar to "this is kind of"?

Alternatives include /s/this+is+somewhat, /s/this+is+a+bit, or /s/this+is+sort+of, depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to use "this is kind of"?

Yes, "this is kind of" is grammatically correct and commonly used in spoken and written English to express a moderate degree or to soften a statement.

When should I avoid using "this is kind of"?

Avoid using "this is kind of" in formal writing where precise and direct language is preferred. In such cases, opt for more assertive phrasing.