this is playing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is playing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is currently in the process of being played, such as a video, music, or a game. Example: "This is playing on my computer right now, and I can't hear you over the sound."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Music

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

"This is playing firm and fast.

The New York Times - Sports

Currently this is playing like a farce.

The Guardian - Film

"This is playing with fire," Mr. Walden said.

The New York Times

"Perhaps you will think that this is playing at spies," she wrote.

The New York Times - Books

This is playing out in a PR sense and in a practical sense.

The Guardian

"This is playing in the Super Bowl and getting the Oscar all in one breath.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

None of this is played at the level of farce.

Huffington Post

This is played on your knees.

WikiHow

This is played on the same board as chess.

WikiHow

"This was playing at breakfast this morning in the hotel.

The New Yorker

Fair comment, but this was playing with big boys.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is playing" to clearly indicate that something is currently active or being presented. Ensure the context is clear to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "this is playing" in highly formal documents or academic papers. Opt for more precise language like "this is currently being demonstrated" or "this scenario is unfolding" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is playing" functions as a present continuous statement, indicating an action or event that is currently in progress. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. It specifies that something is happening at the moment of speaking.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Sport

15%

Music

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this is playing" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to indicate that something is currently in progress. According to Ludwig AI, it is suitable for a variety of contexts, particularly in news, media, sports, and music. While its register is generally neutral, more formal alternatives may be preferred in academic or professional settings. When using this phrase, ensure clarity to avoid ambiguity and consider the audience to maintain the appropriate tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is currently being shown

Replaces 'playing' with 'being shown', emphasizing the act of presentation.

this is being performed

Highlights the act of performing, suitable for plays or concerts.

this is now airing

Emphasizes the broadcasting aspect, suitable for TV or radio contexts.

this is being enacted

Suitable in contexts where rules, laws, or scripts are being followed or implemented.

this is presently unfolding

Focuses on the progression of events as they happen.

this is transpiring

Implies that events are unfolding, often with a sense of mystery or drama.

this is in progress

A more general term indicating that something is ongoing.

this is underway

Similar to 'in progress', but can imply a more structured event.

this is materializing

Emphasizes the process of becoming real or visible.

this is taking place

A neutral alternative, indicating that something is happening at a specific time and place.

FAQs

What does "this is playing" mean?

The phrase "this is playing" generally means that something is currently active, happening, or being presented, such as music, a video, or a game.

How can I use "this is playing" in a sentence?

You can use "this is playing" to describe an ongoing event. For example, "This is playing on the radio now", or "This is playing at the local theater tonight".

What are some alternatives to "this is playing"?

Alternatives include phrases like "this is currently being shown", "this is now airing", or "this is in progress depending on the context.

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

While grammatically correct, "this is playing" might be too informal for some formal contexts. Consider using more precise language like "this is currently being demonstrated" or "this scenario is unfolding".