this is the test

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is the test" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when introducing or indicating that something is a trial or examination of a concept, skill, or system. Example: "Before we proceed with the final exam, let me remind you that this is the test of your understanding of the material covered."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

"This is the test piece," he said.

The New York Times

"This is the test for reform in this country.

The New York Times

"This is the test of our European ideal.

The Guardian

This is the test of the president's ability to lead.

The New York Times

On the first few dates this is the test for me.

The New York Times

This is the test for us, to try and push on".

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

This is the testing material.

The Guardian - Sport

This incident, the confidant said, sealed Abdullah's reputation with his father: "This was the test, and Prince Abdullah passed".

The New York Times - Magazine

This was the test which Angelina Jolie took before having a double mastectomy.

BBC

This was the test material (theoretical amount: 329.9 MBq/872 g dewatered sludge) used for the lysimeter experiments.

Environmental Sciences Europe

Another limitation of this study is the test conditions.

Critical Care

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider substituting "test" with more specific terms like "evaluation", "assessment", or "trial" to provide greater clarity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "this is the test" in overly casual or informal situations where a more relaxed expression would be more appropriate. Overusing the phrase can make your language sound stilted or pretentious. Consider alternatives like "this is it" or "let's see how this goes" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is the test" functions as a declarative statement, often serving to introduce or emphasize a crucial moment of evaluation, assessment, or trial. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

14%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "this is the test" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to emphasize a crucial moment of evaluation or trial. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is readily usable in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science and Wiki contexts, the phrase serves to highlight the importance of an upcoming assessment. While versatile, avoiding overuse in casual settings will keep your writing sharp and impactful. By understanding its function and purpose, you can effectively use "this is the test" to add weight to your statements and set clear expectations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is the acid test

Emphasizes the difficulty and stringency of the "test".

this is the litmus test

Like acid test, refers to an ultimate and definitive "test".

this constitutes the trial

Replaces "is" with "constitutes" for emphasis on the act of something being a trial.

this represents the evaluation

Changes the verb to "represents" offering a formal and detached assessment.

this marks the assessment

Uses "marks" to highlight the beginning or importance of the assessment.

this serves as the check

Highlights the function as a "check", implying a verification or control process.

this is the proving ground

Metaphorically presents the situation as a "proving ground", where capabilities are demonstrated.

this will prove the theory

Focuses on demonstrating the validity of a "theory" through a specific test.

this is the critical juncture

Shifts from testing to emphasize the importance and criticality of the moment.

this is the key challenge

Focuses on the difficulty and demanding nature of the "challenge".

FAQs

How can I use "this is the test" in a sentence?

You can use "this is the test" to introduce a situation that will prove something's worth or ability. For example, "This is the test to see if our new strategy will work".

What are some alternatives to "this is the test"?

Alternatives include "this is the "acid test"", "this is the "litmus test"", or "this is the "proving ground"", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "this was the test" instead of "this is the test"?

Yes, "this was the test" is correct when referring to a test that has already occurred. "This is the test" refers to a test that is currently happening or about to happen.

How does "this is the test" differ from "this is a test"?

"This is the test" usually refers to a specific, significant evaluation, whereas "this is a test" can refer to any general trial or assessment. The use of 'the' implies a particular, often crucial, evaluation.