what counts

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "what counts" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used in the context of determining something's importance or significance. Here is an example: "What counts in life is not the mere accumulation of wealth, but the relationships we cultivate and the impact we have on others."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What counts?

Princeton University

Isn't that what counts?

The New York Times

What counts as overweight?

The New Yorker

"And that's what counts".

The New York Times - Sports

That's what counts".

The New Yorker

What counts as zany?

The New York Times

Performance is what counts.

The New York Times

October is what counts".

The New York Times - Sports

What counts as suspicious?

The Guardian - Sport

Trademarks are what counts.

The New Yorker

This is what counts".

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience when using "what counts". In formal settings, use it to refer to measurable outcomes, while in informal settings, it can refer to subjective values.

Common error

Avoid using "what counts" without explicitly stating the criteria for evaluation. For example, instead of saying "What counts is effort", specify "What counts is consistent effort and demonstrated improvement".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what counts" functions as a noun clause, often serving as the subject or complement of a sentence. It introduces the element or factor considered most important or significant. Ludwig shows numerous examples where this phrase effectively highlights crucial aspects in various situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "what counts" is a versatile phrase used to emphasize importance or significance. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely applicable across various contexts. Its neutral register allows for use in both formal and informal settings, making it a valuable tool for clear and impactful communication. Be mindful to clearly define the criteria you are referring to. Consider using alternatives like "what matters" or "what is important" depending on the context. Remember, according to the frequency of use in Ludwig's examples, "what counts" is most often encountered in News & Media and Academic writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what matters

Focuses on the aspect that holds importance or significance.

what is important

Directly highlights the aspect of importance.

what is relevant

Emphasizes the aspect that is pertinent or applicable.

what is significant

Highlights the notable or consequential aspect.

the key thing

Points to the crucial or central element.

the main thing

Emphasizes the principal or foremost aspect.

the crucial factor

Highlights the critical element influencing an outcome.

the deciding factor

Indicates the element that determines a result.

the essential thing

Points out the indispensable or necessary element.

the vital aspect

Emphasizes the critically important element.

FAQs

How can I use "what counts" in a sentence?

You can use "what counts" to emphasize the most important aspect of a situation. For example, "In the end, what counts is whether you gave it your best effort".

What's a more formal alternative to "what counts"?

In formal contexts, you could use alternatives like "what is significant", "what is paramount", or "what is of primary importance".

What can I say instead of "what counts" in a casual conversation?

In casual settings, consider using phrases like "what matters", "what's key", or "the main thing".

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "what counts"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "What counts" functions as a noun clause and can serve as the subject of a sentence. For example, "What counts is that you tried your best".