which is to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "which is to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to introduce a definition, purpose, result, or explanation. For example, "The purpose of this exercise, which is to strengthen your core, will help you to stay fit."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Which is to say: like a bitch.

The New Yorker

Which is to say, the oil companies.

The New York Times

Which is to say, not much.

The New York Times - Sports

Which is to say, it became uncool.

The New York Times - Arts

Which is to say, ten minutes early.

The New Yorker

Which is to say, all of us.

The New York Times

Which is to say, all the time.

The New York Times

Which is to say, very cautiously.

The New York Times

Which is to mow the grass".

The New York Times

Which is to say, most Cypriots.

The New Yorker

(Which is to say, just about everyone).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "which is to" to introduce a definition, purpose, or explanation that directly relates to the noun or phrase it follows. It provides a concise way to clarify meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "which is to" to connect independent clauses or unrelated ideas. It should always refer back to a specific noun or phrase for clarification, not as a general conjunction.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "which is to" is to introduce a relative clause that provides further explanation or clarification regarding a preceding noun or phrase. As Ludwig AI states, it is grammatically correct and used to introduce definitions, purposes, results, or explanations. Examples include "Which is to say, like a bitch" and "Which is to say, ten minutes early."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

84%

Academia

13%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "which is to" serves as a versatile phrase used to introduce clarification, explanation, or rephrasing. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used in English writing. It's prevalent in News & Media and Academic contexts, lending itself to both formal and informal tones. While "which is to" is very common, it's crucial to remember that it must be used to refer back to a particular noun or phrase for clarification. Alternatives such as "that is to say" or "in other words" can provide similar functionality. Mastering the use of "which is to" can enhance the clarity and precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that is to say

Offers a direct rephrasing or clarification of the preceding statement.

in other words

Presents the information in a different, often simpler, manner.

namely

Introduces specific details or examples related to the previous statement.

that means

Indicates the implication or consequence of the preceding statement.

put differently

Rephrases the statement with a different perspective or wording.

to be precise

Adds more accuracy and detail to the previous statement.

more specifically

Provides a narrower focus and further detail.

to clarify

Explicitly aims to remove ambiguity or confusion.

this implies

Highlights the logical consequence or implication.

as an explanation

Introduces a reason or justification for the previous statement.

FAQs

How can I use "which is to" in a sentence?

Use "which is to" to provide a definition, purpose, or explanation directly related to the preceding noun or phrase. For example: "The primary goal, "which is to" improve efficiency, will require significant investment."

What are some alternatives to "which is to"?

You can use alternatives like "that is to say", "in other words", or "namely" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Each alternative offers a slightly different flavor of clarification or explanation.

Is it always necessary to use a comma before "which is to"?

Yes, generally a comma precedes "which is to" because it introduces a nonrestrictive clause, providing additional but nonessential information. Omitting the comma can sometimes change the meaning or make the sentence grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between "which is to" and "that is to say"?

"Which is to" is used to add information about something, while "that is to say" is used to clarify or rephrase a previous statement. While they are similar, "that is to say" focuses more on restatement than additional detail.