this or that

USAGE SUMMARY

"this or that" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase when you need to give a choice between two options, such as "Do you want coffee this morning or tea?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

HuffPost

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's not this or that.

The New York Times

Some say they overheard this or that.

The New York Times

Unreliable sources claim this or that.

The Guardian

Maybe he won't do this or that.

The Guardian

Like, Let's fix this or that.

The New York Times

Maybe it was this or that.

Stanford University

I'm not thinking about this or that.

The New York Times - Arts

"I wasn't thinking about this or that.

The New York Times - Sports

We can't unequivocally say Handel was this or that.

The New York Times - Arts

"It is always us versus them, this or that.

The Guardian - Books

We "should" save trees, we "should" do this or that.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this or that" to present a simple, often binary, choice to your audience, making it clear there are two distinct options.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "this or that" in formal or academic writing, as it can sometimes come across as simplistic. Opt for more precise language when detailing complex choices.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this or that" functions as a conjunction, presenting a choice or alternatives. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct. It serves to offer two distinct options, inviting a decision or expressing uncertainty between them.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

12%

HuffPost

8%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this or that" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to present a choice or uncertainty between two options. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. While its register is generally neutral, more formal alternatives may be preferable in academic or scientific writing. With frequent usage in news and media, understanding its function can enhance clarity in both writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

either this or that

Adds emphasis on the exclusivity of the choice.

whether this or that

Introduces uncertainty about which of the two is true or will occur.

one thing or another

More general, implying something will definitely happen or is the case.

this option or that option

More explicit and formal, specifying that options are being presented.

one possibility or the other

Highlights that there are only two possible outcomes.

a choice between the two

Focuses on the act of choosing.

this thing or that thing

Used when referring to objects or concepts in a less formal way.

a selection between the alternatives

Emphasizes the act of selection from presented alternatives.

some alternative

More vague, referring to an unspecified option.

a binary choice

More formal and technical, indicating a choice between two distinct options.

FAQs

How can I use "this or that" in a sentence?

You can use "this or that" to present a choice between two options, such as "Do you prefer "this" or "that"?"

What are some alternatives to "this or that"?

Alternatives include "either/or", "one thing or another", or being more specific about the choices you are presenting.

Is it always appropriate to use "this or that" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "this or that" can sometimes seem too informal. Consider using more specific language in academic or professional contexts.

What's the difference between "this or that" and "either/or"?

"Either/or" is a more formal construction that serves the same purpose as "this or that", presenting a choice between two possibilities.