this is what

USAGE SUMMARY

"this is what" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that was said or presented previously in the same paragraph or conversation. Example: My professor suggested I read certain books for my course assignment. This is what I will be focusing on for the next few months.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And this is what.

The New Yorker

This is what we imagine.

The New York Times

This is what he said.

The New York Times

This is what we're exploring".

The New Yorker

This is what you are!

The New Yorker

This is what we're about.

The New York Times - Food

This is what Beltran does.

The New York Times - Sports

This is what is happening.

The New York Times

This is what I feel".

The New York Times

"This is what he wanted.

The New York Times

This is what commenters noticed.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is what" to clearly refer back to a previously mentioned idea or action, creating a direct link for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "this is what" excessively in formal or academic writing; instead, opt for more sophisticated and precise language to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is what" functions as a demonstrative phrase introducing a clarification, explanation, or summary of a previous statement or situation. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is a common and correct phrase in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this is what" is a demonstrative phrase used for clarification or emphasis, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It's grammatically sound and widely applicable, particularly in news and media contexts. While versatile, it's best to use it judiciously in highly formal writing to maintain a professional tone. Consider alternatives like "that is what" or "this is the reason why" for stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that is what

Changes the demonstrative pronoun from "this" to "that", shifting the focus slightly.

this is the thing

Replaces "what" with "the thing", providing a more concrete feel.

this is the point

Emphasizes that a specific idea or argument is being highlighted.

that's the essence

Uses "that's" instead of "this is" and replaces "what" with "the essence", indicating the fundamental nature of something.

this is the reason why

Adds a causal explanation, showing cause and effect

here's the thing

Uses "here's" instead of "this is", offering a more conversational tone.

that is the case

Replaces "what" with "the case", suggesting a statement of fact.

this signifies

Replaces "is what" with "signifies", formalizing the language.

this implies

Replaces "is what" with "implies", indicating suggestion or inference.

this demonstrates

Replaces "is what" with "demonstrates", showing proof or evidence.

FAQs

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

Use "this is what" to refer back to something previously mentioned or described. For example, "The instructions were unclear, but "this is what" I understood from them".

What are some alternatives to "this is what"?

Depending on the context, consider alternatives such as "that is what", "this is the reason why", or "here's the thing" to add variety to your writing.

Is it okay to start a sentence with "this is what"?

Yes, starting a sentence with "this is what" is grammatically correct, especially when you want to emphasize or clarify something. However, avoid overuse to maintain a natural flow.

What's the difference between "this is what" and "that is what"?

"This is what" typically refers to something closer in context or time, while "that is what" usually refers to something more distant or previously discussed.