typically thought of as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "typically thought of as" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing common perceptions or general beliefs about a subject or concept. Example: "Cats are typically thought of as independent animals that require little attention from their owners."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Aside from Norm MacDonald and Kids in the Hall, Canadians aren't typically thought of as "funny".

Vice

Family firms aren't typically thought of as particularly innovative.

Harvard Business Review

The BOM is typically thought of as a "thing" or a database rather than a process.

Configuration Management Metrics Product Lifecycle and Engineering Documentation Control Process Measurement and Improvement

I mean, this is typically thought of as very noisy data.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Though typically thought of as general poisons, most chemotherapy drugs work because they disrupt metabolic functions.

MIT Technology Review

Distance learning is typically thought of as a relatively modern innovation — accelerated through the Internet and online classes.

Harvard University

While eastern New Jersey is not typically thought of as at-risk for earthquakes or tsunamis, there are other fears.

The Guardian - Opinion

Physicians are typically thought of as gentler denizens of the profession since they work with their minds rather than instruments.

The Guardian - Opinion

In Queensland, typically thought of as a socially conservative state, there is already high-profile backing for the campaign.

The Guardian

And now at a takeout window, Khe-Yosk, he's added banh mi, a sandwich typically thought of as Vietnamese.

The New York Times - Food

"With this project we are also thinking about the kind of documentation that indexes sound but isn't typically thought of as part of a historical sound archive.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "typically thought of as" to introduce a common belief or assumption before presenting an alternative perspective or new information.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "typically thought of as" in formal writing. While it's useful for introducing common knowledge, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Aim for more concise and direct phrasing when possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "typically thought of as" functions as a linking phrase. It introduces a commonly held belief, assumption, or perception. According to Ludwig, this phrase is commonly used to set up a contrast or to introduce a different perspective. Many Examples of Ludwig confirm this use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

28%

Academia

23%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "typically thought of as" is a versatile phrase used to introduce common perceptions or beliefs. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves as a linking phrase, setting the stage for contrasting information or alternative viewpoints. It is deemed grammatically correct and sees frequent use across diverse domains, particularly in news, science, and academia. While highly prevalent, writers should avoid overusing it to maintain writing concision. This phrase has several alternatives, including "commonly regarded as" or "generally considered to be", allowing for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

commonly regarded as

Focuses on widespread opinion or perception.

generally considered to be

Highlights a widespread agreement or acceptance.

widely perceived as

Emphasizes the broadness of the perception.

usually viewed as

Indicates a habitual or frequent way of seeing something.

conventionally understood as

Stresses an accepted understanding based on custom.

traditionally known as

Highlights a recognition that is based on long-standing customs.

historically seen as

Focuses on the view of something over a period of time.

in general terms

Indicates that a statement is true for the largest part.

by and large

Implies that something is mostly true.

for the most part

Indicates that something is true in most cases but not all.

FAQs

How can I use "typically thought of as" in a sentence?

Use "typically thought of as" to introduce a common or conventional understanding of a concept before presenting an alternative view or providing additional context. For example, "The desert is "typically thought of as" a hot, dry place, but some deserts are actually quite cold".

What are some alternatives to "typically thought of as"?

You can use alternatives such as "generally considered", "commonly regarded as", or "widely perceived as". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "typically thought as"?

No, the correct phrase is ""typically thought of as"". The preposition "of" is essential for grammatical correctness.

What's the difference between "typically thought of as" and "generally considered as"?

"Typically thought of as" implies a common or conventional understanding, while "generally considered as" suggests a widespread opinion or belief. The choice depends on whether you are highlighting a convention or an opinion.