tools such as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tools such as" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to introduce examples or give a list of things that serve a similar purpose. Example: In order to succeed in the digital age, businesses need to utilize tools such as social media, email marketing, and search engine optimization.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Then use tools such as decision analysis.

Harvard Business Review

I use tools such as Archaeology and Ordnance Survey MapFinder.

The Guardian - Tech

Automated tools, such as bank A.T.M.s, began replacing local workers.

The New Yorker

However, browser-based tools, such as Google Docs, will work.

University of California, Berkeley

This allows tools such as dmcoords to compute correct coordinates.

Harvard University

This could make a substantial contribution to eradicating malaria, combined with other tools such as insecticides".

The Guardian

Adults still needs tools such as language and data to function and exhibit their human capacities.

The New York Times

"Now, with tools such as Photoshop, I can create and recreate something in an instantaneous flow.

The New York Times - Tech

They will learn to use specialist tools, such as 3-D printers, laser cutters and robotics.

The Guardian

Most provide formatting tools such as bold, italics, underline, justify and list tools.

The Guardian - Tech

Use tools such as the free ClamXav tool; Sophos also produces a free tool for Macs.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tools such as" to provide concrete examples, making your writing more accessible and easier to understand. For instance, instead of saying 'various instruments', specify "tools such as hammers", "screwdrivers", and "wrenches".

Common error

Avoid repeating "tools such as" too frequently within the same paragraph or section. Vary your language by using synonyms like "for example", "including", or "such as" to maintain a natural and engaging writing style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tools such as" serves as an appositive, specifically introducing examples that clarify the preceding noun ("tools"). This illustrative function enhances comprehension by providing concrete instances, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "tools such as" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression for introducing examples of tools or instruments. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves to clarify a general term by providing specific instances, enhancing understanding. It maintains a neutral register and finds frequent use across diverse contexts, particularly in news, academic, and scientific writing. When using "tools such as", prioritize concrete examples and consider varying your language to avoid redundancy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

utilities such as

Focuses on practical applications and helpfulness, emphasizing functionality more than the term 'tools'.

instruments such as

Implies a higher degree of precision or complexity, suitable when referring to more sophisticated devices.

gadgets such as

Suggests a modern, often electronic, and sometimes novel or non-essential item.

materials such as

Shifts the focus from implements to the substances or components used for a particular purpose.

implements such as

A more formal and general term, applicable to a wide range of devices or instruments used to perform a task.

including examples like

Highlights that what follows are specific instances or illustrations of a broader concept.

for instance

A more concise way to introduce a single, typical example.

such as including

Combines 'such as' with 'including', but maintains a similar function.

for example

A very common and direct way to introduce an example.

namely

Used to specify or identify more precisely, often introducing a list of items.

FAQs

How can I use "tools such as" in a sentence?

The phrase "tools such as" introduces specific examples of a broader category. For example, "Effective communication relies on "tools such as" active listening and clear articulation".

What are some alternatives to "tools such as"?

You can use phrases like "for example", "including", "such as", or "namely" to introduce examples.

What's the difference between "tools such as" and "for example"?

"Tools such as" explicitly refers to implements or instruments, while "for example" is a more general way to introduce any kind of illustration or instance.

Is it better to say "tools such as" or "like"?

"Tools such as" is more formal and precise, suitable for professional or academic writing. "Like" is more casual and acceptable in informal contexts.