with the thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "with the thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in informal contexts when referring to an object or concept that has already been mentioned or is understood by the audience. Example: "I need to discuss the project with the thing we talked about last week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

You mean with the thing?

The New Yorker

Another is playing paddleball with the thing.

The Washington Post

It's ugly waking mornings with the thing flickering.

The New Yorker

But, like, I wouldn't play football with the thing.

The New Yorker

With the thing and the this and the children's books!

The New York Times

Partly because the little bastard was late with the thing.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

Not with the things I have done".

The Guardian - Books

We basically started with the things I knew best.

Cornell University

If only we built more lasting relationships with the things we buy.

New Scientist

Even better: Stick with the things you have.

The Washington Post

He is obsessed with the things that haunt us.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "with the thing" in informal conversations or writing when the specific 'thing' is already known to both you and your audience. Avoid using it in formal contexts where clarity and precision are crucial.

Common error

Avoid relying on "with the thing" in professional or academic writing. Replace it with specific and descriptive language to enhance clarity and credibility. For instance, instead of saying 'the problem with the thing', specify 'the central issue with the proposed model'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "with the thing" functions as a prepositional phrase, often acting as an adverbial modifier. It modifies verbs or clauses by providing additional information about an action or state, typically referencing something previously mentioned or understood. Ludwig examples show its versatility in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "with the thing" is grammatically sound and commonly used, especially in informal settings. Ludwig indicates its correctness and usability, but its broad nature makes it less suitable for formal or academic writing, where specificity is key. The phrase functions as a prepositional phrase, often modifying a verb or clause. While versatile, it's crucial to consider the audience and context when deciding to use "with the thing", opting for more precise language when necessary. Alternatives such as "regarding the matter" or "concerning the object" can provide more clarity in formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

regarding the matter

This alternative provides a more formal and vague substitute, suitable when the specific 'thing' is already understood.

concerning the object

Focuses specifically on a physical object, less ambiguous than 'thing'.

pertaining to the item

Similar to 'concerning the object', but slightly more formal.

in relation to the subject

Highlights the connection to a broader subject, useful in academic or professional contexts.

about the issue

Replaces 'thing' with 'issue', indicating a problem or topic of discussion.

considering the element

Emphasizes a specific component or part being considered.

with respect to that aspect

Highlights a particular facet or viewpoint.

in connection with the situation

Broadens the scope to include the overall situation or circumstances.

relative to the concept

Focuses on a conceptual or abstract idea rather than a tangible object.

regarding that point

Narrows the focus to a specific point or argument.

FAQs

How can I use "with the thing" in a sentence?

You can use "with the thing" in informal contexts when referring to something already mentioned or understood. For example, 'Are you coming "with the thing" we talked about?'

What are some alternatives to "with the thing"?

Depending on the context, you can use more specific phrases like "regarding the matter", "concerning the object", or "in relation to the subject" to replace "with the thing".

When is it appropriate to use "with the thing"?

It is appropriate in informal conversations or writing where the subject is known. Avoid it in formal writing where precision is necessary. You could use "regarding the issue" in formal writing.

Is "with the thing" grammatically correct?

Yes, "with the thing" is grammatically correct, although it is often considered informal. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is indeed correct and usable in written English.