what you are

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'what you are' is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to refer to someone's identity or qualities. For example: "What you are is far more important than what you have."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That's what you are.

The New York Times - Sports

You are what you are".

The New York Times - Sports

This is what you are!

The New Yorker

Because that's what you are.

The New Yorker

What you are wearing?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

For what, you are wondering.

The New York Times

That's what you are – incandescent!

Independent

"I see what you are.

The Guardian - Film

See what you are missing?

The New York Times - Sports

Think what you are doing".

The Guardian

"What you are doing works.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "what you are" to refer to someone's intrinsic qualities or identity. For example, "It's more important what you are than what you have."

Common error

Avoid using "what you are" when referring to temporary states or conditions. It's better suited for describing fundamental aspects of a person.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what you are" functions as a noun clause, serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig shows examples where it defines identity or qualities, consistent with its grammatical role.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Wiki

32%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "what you are" is a versatile and commonly used expression that serves to define an individual's identity, character, or actions. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable across diverse contexts, including news, wiki articles, and scientific publications. While alternatives like "who you are" or "your true self" exist, "what you are" often carries a broader connotation, focusing on inherent qualities rather than just identity. When using the phrase, it is important to focus on fundamental characteristics instead of temporary states or conditions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

who you are

Focuses on the inherent identity of a person.

your true self

Emphasizes the authentic inner nature of an individual.

what defines you

Highlights the key characteristics or aspects that make someone who they are.

the essence of you

Refers to the core nature or most important qualities of a person.

your being

Addresses someone's existence and fundamental nature.

your actions

Emphasizes the things someone does, as a reflection of their character.

your qualities

Highlights the attributes and characteristics a person possesses.

your character

Stresses someone's moral or ethical nature.

your personality

Focuses on the combination of characteristics that form an individual's distinctive character.

what you're about

Emphasizes a person's values and priorities.

FAQs

How can I use "what you are" in a sentence?

You can use "what you are" to define someone's character or essence. For example, "The most important thing is "what you are", not what others think you should be."

What's the difference between "who you are" and "what you are"?

"Who you are" generally refers to your identity and personality, while "what you are" can refer to your actions, character, or essence. The phrases are often interchangeable but "what you are" might carry a slightly broader connotation, focusing on inherent qualities.

What can I say instead of "what you are"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "who you are", "your true self", or "what defines you".

Is "what you are" grammatically correct?

Yes, "what you are" is grammatically correct. It is commonly used in English to refer to someone's identity, character, or inherent qualities.