this stuff

USAGE SUMMARY

"this stuff" is an acceptable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to something without being specific. For example, "I don't know how to do this stuff."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This stuff?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This stuff worked.

The New York Times

People love this stuff.

The New York Times

This stuff really happened".

The New York Times - Arts

This stuff is tough.

The New York Times

This stuff isn't cheap".

The New York Times - Health

"This stuff is cyclical.

The New York Times

Who's buying this stuff?

The New York Times

I'm into this stuff".

The New Yorker

She loves this stuff.

The New York Times - Books

This stuff is ideal.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In academic contexts, replace "this stuff" with a more formal alternative for precision

Common error

While acceptable in casual conversation, relying heavily on "this stuff" in formal writing can make your arguments seem vague and less credible. Opt for more specific language to enhance clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this stuff" primarily functions as a determiner followed by a noun, where "stuff" acts as a general term referring to unspecified items, topics, or materials. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability, with examples demonstrating its use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Academia

28%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

16%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this stuff" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that serves as a general reference to unspecified items or topics. Ludwig AI analysis shows it's particularly common in News & Media, and Academia, though less suited for highly formal contexts. While acceptable in many situations, remember to consider your audience and the level of formality required. For clarity and precision, consider alternative phrases like "this material" or "these things" in professional or academic writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

This material

Replaces "stuff" with a more specific and tangible term, implying a physical substance.

These things

Uses a more general term, focusing on multiple unspecified items or concepts.

This business

Implies a specific matter, activity, or situation.

This subject

Refers to a topic or area of discussion.

This matter

Implies a concern, issue, or situation needing attention.

All this

Emphasizes the entirety of the unspecified things or concepts.

This situation

Refers to a set of circumstances or conditions.

This topic

Specifically refers to a subject of conversation or discussion.

This content

Implies specific material that is being referenced.

What's this

Changes the statement to a question regarding the object or concept.

FAQs

How can I use "this stuff" in a sentence?

"This stuff" is used to refer to something unspecified or general. For example, "I don't know how to fix "this stuff"" or "She loves "this stuff"".

What's a more formal way to say "this stuff"?

Depending on the context, you could use more specific alternatives like "this material", "this subject", or "these things".

Is it okay to use "this stuff" in academic writing?

While grammatically correct, "this stuff" is generally too informal for academic writing. Consider using more precise and formal language, such as "this topic" or "this matter".

What does "this stuff" actually mean?

"This stuff" is a general phrase used to refer to items, concepts, or activities that are either obvious from the context or not specifically named. It's a way to avoid being overly precise or formal in casual conversation.