thread

USAGE SUMMARY

'thread' is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it as a noun meaning a thin line of material, such as a length of cotton or a piece of string, or as a verb meaning to pass a length of material through something or to put different pieces of a discussion or argument together. For example: She threaded the needle and began to sew the hem of her dress.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

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The Guardian

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The Guardian

A significant thread in the recent politics of Tower Hamlets is the legacy of the Battle of Cable Street, the legendary East End street confrontation involving the police, local Jewish and Irish workers and activists, and Sir Oswald Mosley's British Union of Fascists that took place on 4 October, 1936.

The Guardian

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The Guardian

Welcome to You Tell Us, the thread on which you can share your ideas for topics we should be covering on Comment is free.

The Guardian - Opinion

You can see the collection of articles commissioned via this thread by visiting the You Told Us page.

The Guardian - Opinion

Charles Arthur, technology editor If you like a nomination, cast a vote for them with a short comment in the comment thread.

The Guardian

The immediate future of Prior hangs by a thread.

The Guardian - Sport

If you can't attend in person, you can still help us choose which myths about Africa we should focus on by adding your thoughts in the comment thread, or on Twitter @gdndevelopment.

The Guardian

Consider this list a starting point - please add your own suggestions in the comments thread below.

The Guardian

Let us know in the comment thread below.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "thread" to describe a common element or theme that connects various ideas or aspects of a subject.

Common error

Avoid using "thread" in a context where the literal and metaphorical meanings could be confused. Be sure to clarify the intended meaning to prevent ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The word "thread" functions primarily as a noun, denoting a thin strand of material, or a theme linking ideas. It also functions as a verb, meaning to pass a thread through something. As shown in Ludwig, "thread" appears in various contexts, both literal and figurative.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Lifestyle

25%

Opinion

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Books

7%

Sport

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the word "thread" is a versatile term functioning as both a noun and a verb, commonly used to describe a thin strand of material or, metaphorically, a connecting theme or idea. Ludwig's AI analysis confirms its correct and usable status in written English. As evidenced by numerous examples across News & Media, Lifestyle, and Opinion contexts, the word is frequently employed. When using "thread", consider the intended meaning to avoid ambiguity between its literal and figurative senses. Alternatives such as "strand", "topic", or "theme" may be suitable depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strand

Replaces "thread" with a similar term, emphasizing a single, continuous piece or element.

filament

Similar to "thread", but often used in a more technical or scientific context.

topic

When "thread" refers to a theme or subject, "topic" provides a direct synonym.

theme

Focuses on the underlying idea or motif, akin to a "thread" that connects different elements.

line of reasoning

Emphasizes the sequential and logical progression of thought, similar to following a "thread" of an argument.

train of thought

Highlights the sequence of connected ideas, akin to following a "thread" of an argument.

hang by a slender thread

Emphasizes precarity or a fragile state, using a more descriptive and figurative expression.

connecting link

Highlights the role of "thread" as a connector or bridge between different elements or ideas.

follow the lead

Suggests pursuing a particular direction or piece of information, akin to following a "thread".

pass through

Uses an alternative term to refer to the action of passing something through something.

FAQs

How can I use "thread" in a sentence?

You can use "thread" as a noun, such as, "All of these essays have a common "thread"". Or you can use it as a verb, such as, "Thread the needle and start sewing".

What are some synonyms for "thread" when referring to a topic or theme?

When "thread" refers to a topic or theme, you can use synonyms like "topic", "theme", or "subject" depending on the context.

What does it mean when someone says something is hanging by a "thread"?

When something is said to be hanging by a ""thread"", it means that its situation is precarious or uncertain, and it could easily fail or be lost.

Is it correct to use "thread" to describe a sequence of messages in an online forum?

Yes, in online contexts, a ""thread"" refers to a series of messages, generally grouped by subject, in which all messages except the first are replies to previous messages in the "thread".