was of the sort

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "was of the sort" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a particular category or type of something in a more formal or literary context. Example: "The painting was of the sort that evoked deep emotions in its viewers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

The party itself was of the sort that might delight any novelist, romantic or otherwise.

The New Yorker

Dr. Moyle said the study was of the sort that should be carried out for other species worldwide because "it demonstrates that we can predict alien invasions".

The New York Times

According to Sgt. Matthew Dearing, the knife, which had a nine-inch blade, was of the sort commonly found in kitchens.

The New York Times

The décor was of the sort that is accumulated: old boots and stuffed owls and mahogany tables and elderly television sets and gorgeous mirrors over the mantels.

The New York Times - Travel

The wedding ceremony was of the sort in which the couple have written their own vows, and a compliant reverend presides.

The New Yorker

If quantity is any gauge, Broadway can be said to be humming, having survived the busiest autumn in memory: the ceaseless cavalcade of openings was of the sort that one normally associates with the run-up to the Tony awards in the late spring.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Paths were of the sort that disappeared or turned into streams.

The Guardian - Travel

What laughter it offers is of the sort that catches in your throat.

The New York Times

Her character and disposition were of the sort that not only invite worship but command it.

Huffington Post

DeWyze's finance job was of the unglamorous sort.

Forbes

There's been nothing of the sort.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "was of the sort" to introduce a description or example that clarifies the nature or type of something you've already mentioned. It's particularly effective when elaborating on abstract concepts or unfamiliar items.

Common error

Avoid using "was of the sort" in informal contexts where simpler alternatives like "was like" or "was the kind of" would be more appropriate. Overly formal language can sound stilted or pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was of the sort" functions as a descriptive qualifier, indicating that something belongs to a particular category or possesses certain characteristics. As shown in Ludwig, it elaborates on the nature or type of a previously mentioned subject.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "was of the sort" serves as a descriptive tool, categorizing subjects with a level of formality suitable for news, academic, and professional contexts. While Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, it's important to note its uncommon frequency and to avoid overuse in casual settings. Consider using more accessible alternatives such as "was of the kind" or "was like" in informal conversations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was of the kind

Emphasizes the type or category to which something belongs, similar to "was of the sort".

was of the type

Focuses on the specific classification or variety, closely mirroring the meaning of "was of the sort".

was similar to

Indicates a resemblance or likeness, providing a broader comparison than "was of the sort".

was characteristic of

Highlights a typical trait or feature, suggesting a pattern more than a specific instance.

was in the nature of

Refers to the inherent qualities or essence of something, implying a more fundamental aspect.

was akin to

Suggests a close relationship or similarity, often used in a more literary context.

resembled

Simple verb indicating similarity in appearance or qualities.

mirrored

Indicates a close and exact resemblance, often used metaphorically.

was analogous to

Highlights a parallel or correspondence, typically used in analytical or explanatory contexts.

shared traits with

Indicates common features or attributes, focusing on shared characteristics.

FAQs

How can I use "was of the sort" in a sentence?

"Was of the sort" is used to describe something by indicating its type or category. For example, "The party was of the sort that might delight any novelist" means the party was a particular kind of party, specifically one that novelists would enjoy.

What phrases are similar to "was of the sort"?

Similar phrases include "was of the kind", "was of the type", or "was similar to". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "was of the sort"?

"Was of the sort" is suitable for formal or literary contexts where you want to provide a descriptive classification. It's less common in casual conversation.

What's the difference between "was of the sort" and "was like"?

"Was of the sort" is more formal and descriptive, suggesting a specific category or type. "Was like" is more general and can indicate resemblance in a broader sense. Using "was like" is more appropriate for informal contexts.