thing
thing — noun
1. any physical object that people can see or touch, used when the exact name is no
any physical object that people can see or touch, used when the exact name is not known or does not matter
What is that round thing on the kitchen table?
question: what + is + that [adjective] thing + location
Asher asked his mother what the blue thing in the box was.
The small thing next to the computer makes a loud noise.
Can you pass me that red thing beside your cup?
Élise put the wet thing near the fire so it would dry.
- little thing
- small thing
- big thing
- round thing
- strange thing
Grammar Patterns
a [adjective] thing
the [adjective] thing
Usage Note
Frequently used with demonstratives (this/that/these/those) or adjectives before the word to describe the object's appearance or state.
Common Mistakes
2. clothes, tools, bags, or other objects that belong to a person or are needed for
clothes, tools, bags, or other objects that belong to a person or are needed for a particular activity
Dewi packed all her things into two big bags.
collocation: pack [possessive] things
Do not forget to take your things when you leave the bus.
Kenji put his swimming things into a bag after practice.
Megan keeps her art things in a special box under the bed.
The teacher asked the children to take their things off the desk.
- pack one's things
- take one's things
- gather one's things
- swimming things
- painting things
- belongings
more formal than 'things'; used for everything a person owns
- stuff
informal; uncountable, used in everyday speech for a collection of objects
- possessions
formal; suggests items of value that one owns permanently
Grammar Patterns
someone's things
pack one's things
take one's things
Usage Note
Always used in the plural form 'things' when referring to a person's belongings. Used with possessive adjectives (my/your/his/her/their things) or possessive names (Emma's things).
3. a group of objects that are used together for a specific activity, especially in
a group of objects that are used together for a specific activity, especially in or around the home
Please put the tea things on the table for our guests.
phrase: 'the [activity] things' for a set of items
Grandma keeps her sewing things in that old basket by the window.
The campers packed their cooking things before leaving for the lake.
Ignacio washed all the cooking things and dried them carefully.
- tea things
- cooking things
- sewing things
- painting things
- washing things
Grammar Patterns
the [activity] things
Usage Note
The activity name comes before 'things' without a hyphen: tea things, sewing things, cooking things. More common in British English than American English. Sounds slightly old-fashioned in some contexts.
Common Mistakes
4. an idea, fact, situation, action, or event that you talk or think about without
an idea, fact, situation, action, or event that you talk or think about without naming it exactly
The best thing about Sundays is sleeping late.
structure: the best/worst thing about [noun] is...
One thing I need to tell you is that the meeting has moved.
A strange thing happened at the park yesterday morning.
There is one thing we still need to talk about before the end.
Amira told me a funny thing that happened at school today.
- the best thing
- the worst thing
- the funny thing
- the strange thing
- the important thing
- one thing
- the first thing
Grammar Patterns
the best/worst thing about [noun]
a/the thing is that...
one thing
Usage Note
Often followed by 'about' (the thing about traveling is...) or 'is' (the thing is, we need more time). The phrase 'the thing is' is very common in spoken English to introduce an important point or reason.
Common Mistakes
5. the particular fact, idea, or object that is exactly the one being talked about,
the particular fact, idea, or object that is exactly the one being talked about, not any other
The thing Emma likes most about her teacher is the patience.
structure: 'the thing [person] [verb] most about [noun] is...'
This is exactly the thing I have been searching for all year.
The thing is, I do not know how to get to the station from here.
phrase: 'the thing is' to introduce the main point
That green jacket is the very thing my sister wanted for her birthday.
- the thing is
- the very thing
- the one thing
- the only thing
- the first thing
Grammar Patterns
the thing [relative clause]
that's the [adjective] thing [relative clause]
the very thing
Usage Note
The phrase 'the thing is' introduces a reason, problem, or main point and is extremely common in both spoken and written English. 'The very thing' is an older but still used expression meaning exactly what is needed.
Common Mistakes
6. something that is real, true, or genuine, not a copy, a fake, or an imitation
something that is real, true, or genuine, not a copy, a fake, or an imitation
This painting is not a copy — it is the real thing.
phrase: 'the real thing' for something genuine
Anjali thought the bag was fake, but it turned out to be the real thing.
After trying different sports, Ryan found the real thing in basketball.
Some people prefer cheap copies, but my father only buys the real thing.
- the real thing
- original
focuses on being the first or earliest version
- genuine article
slightly informal; used for products or people who are truly what they claim to be
Grammar Patterns
the real thing
Usage Note
Almost always appears in the fixed phrase 'the real thing'. Can also be used in the pattern 'is the [noun] thing' to emphasize authenticity or the best example of something.
Common Mistakes
7. used to say that two or more objects, ideas, or events are identical and not dif
used to say that two or more objects, ideas, or events are identical and not different from each other in any way
Renata bought the same thing as her sister, but in blue.
the same thing as + noun
I would do the same thing if I were in your position.
The twins wore the same thing to school and confused their teacher.
Hamza keeps saying the same thing over and over, which annoys everyone.
- the same thing
- exactly the same thing
- the very same thing
- different
not the same; opposite in meaning
Grammar Patterns
the same thing as + noun
the same thing + clause
Usage Note
Usually part of the fixed phrase 'the same thing'; can take a singular or plural subject.
Common Mistakes
8. a specific event, activity, or set of arrangements that people have agreed on or
a specific event, activity, or set of arrangements that people have agreed on or are preparing for
The whole thing took longer than we expected because of the rain.
the whole thing — referring to an entire event
The organizers called off the thing at the last minute when the singer got sick.
The party was the biggest thing the town had seen all year.
Let us just forget the whole thing and start fresh tomorrow.
Élise had planned the thing for months, so she was upset when it was cancelled.
- the whole thing
- call off the thing
- the biggest thing
Grammar Patterns
the + thing
the whole thing
Usage Note
Often used with 'the whole' to refer to an entire event or plan from start to finish.
9. the most important fact, feature, or idea among all others in a particular situa
the most important fact, feature, or idea among all others in a particular situation
The thing I love most about this city is the food market near my home.
The thing + relative clause for focus
The funny thing is that nobody noticed the mistake until the end.
The best thing about the job is working from home three days a week.
The scary thing about driving in snow is losing control on slippery roads.
The thing that surprised Asher the most was how friendly everyone was.
- the best thing
- the funny thing
- the scary thing
- the thing about
Grammar Patterns
the [adjective] thing about + noun/gerund
the thing + that + clause
Usage Note
Commonly appears in the pattern 'the [adjective] thing about...' or 'the thing that [verb]...' to highlight a single notable aspect.
Common Mistakes
10. every possible situation, subject, or area of life, used after 'all' or 'in all'
every possible situation, subject, or area of life, used after 'all' or 'in all' to cover everything without exception
Ava believes in being honest in all things, no matter how small.
in all things — in every situation
The teacher was an expert in all things related to ancient Rome.
In all things, it is better to be kind than to be right.
Ramón read books about all things — science, history, art, and music.
For all things related to visas, you should check the embassy website.
- all things
- in all things
- all things related to
- everything
more direct and common; does not require the word 'all' before it
- every aspect
more formal; emphasises individual parts of a whole
Grammar Patterns
all things
in all things
all things + past participle
Usage Note
Almost always used with 'all' — either 'all things' or 'in all things.' The singular form is extremely rare in this sense.
11. a conversational opening phrase ('the thing is') that highlights a key fact abou
a conversational opening phrase ('the thing is') that highlights a key fact about a situation — often used to correct a wrong assumption or to draw attention to what someone might otherwise overlook
The thing is, I do not have enough money for the trip right now.
The thing is, + clause — introducing a key fact
The thing is — how do we get everyone to agree on a date?
The thing is that the restaurant is fully booked for the whole weekend.
The thing is, if we leave now, we might still catch the last train.
The thing is, Kenji had already told the manager he would quit.
- the thing is
- the thing is that
- the problem is
more specific; used when the following point is a difficulty or obstacle
- the point is
focuses on the main argument rather than important background information
Grammar Patterns
The thing is, + clause
The thing is that + clause
The thing is — + clause
Usage Note
A fixed discourse marker that always begins with 'the thing is'; the clause that follows can be a statement or a question.
Common Mistakes
12. the general state of your life, work, or the world around you, without mentionin
the general state of your life, work, or the world around you, without mentioning specific details
How are things at the office these days, Lara?
How are things? — asking about someone's general state
Things have been difficult since the factory closed down last winter.
I am hoping things will get better once the weather improves in spring.
Things between Nala and her brother are much better now after their talk.
With things the way they are, we should not spend too much money.
- how are things
- things are getting better
- things have been difficult
- the way things are
- circumstances
more formal; refers to the conditions affecting a situation
- the situation
singular, more specific; often refers to a particular set of conditions rather than a general state
Grammar Patterns
how are things
things + be + adjective
things + get/become + adjective
Usage Note
Always takes a plural verb form. Subject is always 'things' when referring to the general state, never 'thing' in this sense.
Common Mistakes
13. used to say that a particular event or situation is lucky or fortunate — for exa
used to say that a particular event or situation is lucky or fortunate — for example, that a problem was avoided because of something that happened just in time.
It's a good thing that Mira brought an umbrella, because it started raining heavily.
pattern: it's a good thing that…
A good thing about living near the park is that the children can play outside.
"I missed the bus." "That's not a bad thing — the next one is much faster."
comparative: not a bad thing (positive spin)
It's a good thing the Watanabes left early, or they would have hit traffic.
- a good/bad thing
- a good thing (that)
- not a bad thing
- lucky
similar meaning but used as an adjective rather than a noun construction
- fortunately
adverb used to express the same idea more formally
- unfortunately
used for the opposite — an unlucky or regrettable outcome
Grammar Patterns
it is a good thing (that)…
it's a (good/bad) thing (that)…
Usage Note
Often followed by a that-clause, though 'that' is frequently dropped in spoken English.
Common Mistakes
14. a discourse marker used to introduce an obstacle, problem, or complication that
a discourse marker used to introduce an obstacle, problem, or complication that alters a plan, changes someone's expectations, or explains why something cannot happen as hoped
The thing is, Cyrus does not have enough money to pay the rent this month.
discourse marker: the thing is…
I would love to hike this weekend — the thing is, I have a test on Monday.
The important thing is that everyone made it home safely after the storm.
pattern: the [adjective] thing is (that)…
The thing is, we need to decide by Friday or the hotel will cancel our reservation.
- the thing is
- the important thing is
- the main thing is
- the problem is
more specific — focuses on a difficulty rather than any main point
- the point is
similar register and function as a discourse marker
Grammar Patterns
the thing is (that)…
the important/interesting/sad thing is (that)…
Usage Note
Frequently used at the start of a sentence as a discourse marker. 'That' is optional when followed by a clause.
Common Mistakes
15. used in place of 'anything' in negative statements or questions to make the mean
used in place of 'anything' in negative statements or questions to make the meaning stronger — especially when saying that nothing happened or asking if something happened.
Did you eat a thing at the wedding reception, or were you too busy talking?
question: Did you + [verb] + a thing?
Felipe would not say a thing about the surprise he had planned for Élise.
negated: wouldn't say a thing
Before you say a thing, let me explain why the window is broken.
Lakshmi has not eaten a thing since breakfast — she must be very hungry by now.
- not… a thing
- did you… a thing?
- before you say a thing
- anything
neutral equivalent, not emphatic; appropriate for all registers
Grammar Patterns
[neg] + a thing
question + a thing
Usage Note
This sense is informal and most common in spoken English. Do not use 'a thing' this way in formal writing; use 'anything' instead.
Common Mistakes
❌ 'I didn't eat a thing for breakfast, so I'm hungry.' (no mistake, but 'a thing' is too casual for an essay) — Use 'anything' in formal writing.
16. not a single item at all; used with strong emphasis to say that absolutely nothi
not a single item at all; used with strong emphasis to say that absolutely nothing exists, happens, or is present in a particular situation.
There was not a thing in the fridge, so Caleb ordered pizza for dinner.
There was not a thing in…
Daichi understood not a thing of what the speaker said about the new tax laws.
Nellie opened her suitcase, but there was not a thing she could wear to dinner.
not a thing + relative clause
Not a thing has changed in this village since Gabriela last visited twenty years ago.
- not a thing
- not a single thing
- not a thing has changed
- nothing
neutral equivalent, less emphatic
- not a single thing
even stronger emphasis than 'not a thing'
- everything
the complete opposite — all items present
Grammar Patterns
not a thing
not a single thing
Usage Note
Stronger than 'nothing'. When you say 'not a thing', you are emphasising the completeness of the absence. This phrase often appears at the start of a sentence for rhetorical effect.
17. to feel or claim that one lacks suitable clothes for a particular event or setti
to feel or claim that one lacks suitable clothes for a particular event or setting — even if one actually owns many clothes.
Sirin said she had nothing to wear to her cousin's wedding ceremony in the temple.
collocation: have nothing to wear to [event]
Tomás opened his wardrobe and complained that he had nothing to wear for the interview.
Putri realised she had nothing to wear that was both warm enough and formal.
"I have nothing to wear!" is a common complaint, even when the closet is full of clothes.
- have nothing to wear
- nothing to wear to
- lack suitable clothes
formal equivalent, not idiomatic
Grammar Patterns
have nothing to wear
Usage Note
This is a common complaint about having 'nothing suitable', not about truly owning zero clothes. It is informal and often used humorously or dramatically.
Common Mistakes
18. used to say that no possible action can change or improve a difficult situation
used to say that no possible action can change or improve a difficult situation — expressing helplessness or acceptance that the situation must be endured.
Once the bridge collapsed, there was nothing we could do to reach the other side.
there was nothing [someone] could do
There was nothing the firefighters could do to save the old wooden house from the flames.
pattern: there was nothing [someone] could do
When a child has a fever at night, there is nothing to do but wait.
There was nothing the doctors could do to fix the damage to his injured knee.
- nothing to do but
- nothing [someone] can do
- no such thing
- there is no way to
similar meaning but focuses on the absence of a method rather than the absence of possible action
- something can be done
the opposite — action is possible
Grammar Patterns
there is nothing to do
there is nothing [subject] can do
Usage Note
Often used in the construction 'there is/was nothing (that) someone can/could do' followed by an infinitive of purpose. Also appears in 'there is nothing to do but [verb]'.
Common Mistakes
19. Refers to a specific activity, plan, or arrangement when you do not want to name
Refers to a specific activity, plan, or arrangement when you do not want to name it exactly — for example, joining a book club or organising a shared trip together.
Sumin mentioned that hiking thing we planned for next month.
Did the beach thing with your cousins go ahead last weekend?
The car-sharing thing among the neighbours has saved everyone money.
I hear they are starting a book-exchange thing at the library.
countable noun with modifier: [noun] + thing
The cooking thing every Friday night has become a firm tradition.
- [noun] thing
- the [noun] thing
- this [noun] thing
- activity
more formal and neutral; does not carry the casual tone of 'thing'
- arrangement
emphasises the planning aspect rather than the action itself
- event
suggests a formal occasion rather than an informal plan
Grammar Patterns
the [noun] thing
[noun] thing
Usage Note
Often appears as '[noun] thing' where a specific name for the activity does not exist or is not needed. Compare with sense 4 which refers to an idea or subject, not a scheduled activity.
Common Mistakes
20. used after an adjective to talk about a particular quality, aspect, or fact of a
used after an adjective to talk about a particular quality, aspect, or fact of a situation — for example, the surprising thing about the news or the best thing about living in a small town.
The best thing about living near the sea is the fresh air.
pattern: the best thing about + [gerund/noun]
The only thing Gabriela asked for was a quiet room to study in.
A strange thing happened on the way to the airport this morning.
The first thing Christopher does after work is walk his dog.
pattern: the first thing + [clause]
The hardest thing about learning guitar was building finger strength.
- the [adjective] thing about
- the best thing
- the first thing
- the only thing
- the [adjective] thing is
Grammar Patterns
the [adjective] thing
the [adjective] thing about/of [noun]
Common Mistakes
21. a discourse marker used to redirect attention to the central or most essential m
a discourse marker used to redirect attention to the central or most essential matter under discussion — summarising, prioritising, or cutting through less important details to reach the core point
I would love to come, but the thing is, I have another meeting at five.
fixed phrase: the thing is, + [contrasting clause]
The thing is that Mathieu has never driven on the left side of the road.
The thing about old houses is the heating bills can be very high.
The thing is, Beatrix, we only have three tickets left for the concert.
The thing about the new software is nobody has been trained to use it.
pattern: the thing about [noun] is [clause]
- the thing is
- the thing is that
- the thing about
- the point is
more direct; focuses on the central idea rather than a difficulty
- the problem is
narrower; only for difficulties, not general explanations
Grammar Patterns
the thing is (that) + [clause]
Usage Note
Found in both 'the thing is' (followed by a comma or that) and 'the thing about [something] is' patterns. Used mostly in spoken English and informal writing. Avoid in academic essays.
Common Mistakes
22. Placed after a describing word to mention a person, animal, or even an object in
Placed after a describing word to mention a person, animal, or even an object in a way that shows fondness or pity — for instance, calling a crying child a poor little thing.
Look at that little puppy — the poor thing has been wandering all day.
affectionate: poor thing for an animal
Your kitten is such a sweet little thing when it curls up on the sofa.
Old Mr. Lakan fell asleep in the chair, the dear old thing.
Folake is not a bad thing at heart — just a little shy around new people.
The injured bird was a fragile little thing with a broken wing.
pattern: [adjective] little thing for small creatures
- poor thing
- sweet thing
- little thing
- dear old thing
- young thing
Grammar Patterns
[adjective] thing
you/old/young etc. [adjective] thing
Usage Note
Always appears with a preceding adjective (poor, sweet, dear, little, old). Can be used for people, animals, or even personified objects. The adjective carries the emotional tone — 'thing' itself is neutral. Avoid in formal writing.
Common Mistakes
If conditions stay the same or are similar, then something will probably happen.
All things being equal, we should finish the project by Friday.
Other things being equal, the cheaper option is usually better.
Used to refer to other similar items or activities without naming them all.
She enjoys reading, painting, and things like that.
We talked about school, hobbies, and things.
Used to say that later events showed something to be true or false.
As it turned out, the train was delayed by two hours.
As things turned out, we didn't need the extra tickets.
Used to say that later events showed something to be true or false.
As things turned out, the party was a huge success.
As it turned out, she was right about the weather.
To try to please everyone by changing your behavior or opinions to suit different people.
A politician cannot be all things to all people.
She tried to be all things to all men, but it was impossible.
be the done thing
idiomTo be considered socially acceptable or proper behavior.
In this country, it's the done thing to tip waiters.
Is it the done thing to send a thank-you note?
Used to say that something is lucky or fortunate.
It's a good thing we brought an umbrella.
It's a good thing that you called when you did.
Used to say that something that seems bad might actually have good results.
Losing the match might be no bad thing if it teaches us humility.
It's no bad thing that she left early; we had more time to talk.
be onto a good thing
idiomTo have found a job, situation, or lifestyle that is pleasant and easy.
He works from home and earns a lot—he's onto a good thing.
With free meals and flexible hours, she's onto a good thing.
To imagine that you see or hear something that is not really there.
I thought I saw a ghost, but I must have been seeing things.
Did you hear that noise, or am I hearing things?
Used to say that you would like something to happen but it is very unlikely.
"I wish I could take a vacation." "Chance would be a fine thing!"
Chance would be a fine thing—I never win anything.
a close-run thing
idiomA situation in which someone wins or loses by a very small amount.
The election was a close-run thing, decided by only 100 votes.
The game was a close-run thing; we won in the final minute.
a close thing
idiomA situation where success or failure is almost equally possible.
We escaped the flood, but it was a close thing.
The rescue was a close thing; they arrived just in time.
To have the same result or meaning as something else.
Whether you go by car or train, it comes to the same thing.
Saying "I don't know" and "I'm not sure" is the same thing.
do your own thing
idiomTo do what you want without caring what others think.
After college, she moved to Paris to do her own thing.
He doesn't follow trends; he prefers to do his own thing.
To have a strong emotional effect on someone.
That song really does things to me; it makes me cry.
Her smile does things to him that he can't explain.
first/last thing
idiomEarly in the morning or late in the evening.
I always check my email first thing in the morning.
She takes a hot bath last thing before bed.
first things first
idiomThe most important matters should be dealt with before others.
We have a lot to do, but first things first—let's eat.
First things first: finish your homework before you play.
for one thing
idiomUsed to introduce one reason among several.
Why don't you buy a car? For one thing, it's too expensive.
I can't go; for one thing, I have a meeting.
To get what you want, even if others disagree.
She always has to have everything her own way.
You can't always have things your own way in a team.
To have a strong like or dislike for someone or something, often unreasonably.
He has a thing about people who are always late.
She has a thing about spiders; they terrify her.
To be strongly attracted to someone or to like something very much.
Liz has always had a thing for guys with long hair.
Jamie has a thing for vintage cars.
In the way that things normally happen.
In the nature of things, older people often need more sleep.
In the nature of things, accidents will happen.
Used to emphasize that two things are very different, especially in difficulty or importance.
It's one thing to make a mistake, but it's another to lie about it.
Romance is one thing; marriage is quite another.
Used to say that you do not really enjoy or are not interested in something.
I tried yoga, but it just isn't my thing.
Cooking isn't his thing; he prefers eating out.
it’s a… thing
idiomUsed to say that something is understood only by a particular group.
You wouldn't get it—it's a guy thing.
It's a cultural thing; you have to be from there to understand.
To know or tell someone useful or surprising information.
She's been a nurse for 20 years, so she knows a thing or two about medicine.
Let me tell you a thing or two about this neighborhood.
To treat something as more important than it really is.
He made a big thing about having to wait five minutes.
Don't make a thing of it; it was just a small mistake.
a near thing
idiomA situation where you succeed but could easily have failed.
We caught the train, but it was a near thing.
The team won, but it was a near thing.
the next big thing
idiomA person or thing that is expected to become very popular or successful soon.
Many people think this app will be the next big thing.
She is being called the next big thing in fashion.
To know nothing at all about someone or something.
I don't know the first thing about fixing cars.
He doesn't know the first thing about her background.
not quite the thing
idiomNot considered socially acceptable or proper.
Wearing jeans to a wedding is not quite the thing.
It's not quite the thing to arrive empty-handed.
Used to accept an unpleasant situation as unavoidable.
I missed the bus—it was just one of those things.
The project failed; it's one of those things.
Used to complain that many unpleasant things keep happening.
First my car broke down, then I lost my keys—it's one thing after another.
This week has been one damn thing after another.
Used to say that events happen in a natural sequence without needing explanation.
We started talking, and one thing led to another, and we became friends.
He offered me a ride, and one thing led to another, and now we're dating.
the only thing is…
idiomUsed before mentioning a problem or worry about something.
I'd love to come—the only thing is, I have a prior engagement.
The plan sounds great; the only thing is, it might be too expensive.
overdo it/things
idiomTo work or exercise too hard, causing harm or tiredness.
He overdid it at the gym and hurt his back.
She's been overdoing things lately and needs rest.
To take a risk because you have been successful before, hoping to avoid problems.
You got away with it once, but don't push your luck.
He's pushing things by asking for another raise so soon.
To take a risk because you have been successful before, hoping to avoid problems.
Don't push things; we don't want to lose what we have.
She's pushing her luck by arriving late every day.
the real thing
idiomSomething that is genuine and not an imitation.
This painting is the real thing, not a copy.
After many dates, he finally found the real thing.
The way things are organized or the way someone wants them to be.
In the grand scheme of things, this problem is minor.
Marriage doesn't fit into his scheme of things.
An indication of how things will develop in the future.
Electric cars may be the shape of things to come.
This new technology is the shape of things to come.
sure thing
idiomUsed to agree to a request or suggestion.
"Can you help me?" "Sure thing."
"Want to go for coffee?" "Sure thing."
take it/things easy
idiomTo relax and not work too hard.
The doctor told me to take it easy for a week.
On vacation, I like to take things easy.
To deal with each day's problems without worrying about the future.
After the accident, she's taking it one day at a time.
We don't know what will happen, so we take things one day at a time.
To deal with each day's problems without worrying about the future.
He's taking things one day at a time after his surgery.
Let's take it one day at a time and see how it goes.
There is only one possible course of action in a situation.
We're lost; there's only one thing for it—ask for directions.
The car won't start; there's only one thing for it—call a mechanic.
Used to say that we should accept unpleasant events because we cannot change them.
I know it's frustrating, but these things are sent to try us.
The delay is annoying, but these things are sent to try us.
the (whole)… thing
idiomUsed to refer to a particular situation or activity.
I'm not really into the whole camping thing.
She doesn't want to be involved in the whole family thing.
the thing is
idiomUsed to introduce an important fact, reason, or explanation.
I'd love to go, but the thing is, I have no money.
The thing is, we need to finish this by Friday.
Used to introduce a problem about someone or something.
The thing with Tom is, he's always late.
The thing about this plan is, it's too risky.
Ghosts or supernatural beings that are heard but not seen.
The old house is full of things that go bump in the night.
Children often fear things that go bump in the night.
To do what is morally right or socially expected, especially in a difficult situation.
He did the decent thing and apologized for his mistake.
She did the decent thing by returning the wallet.
Used to say that even pleasant things can become unpleasant if you have too much.
I love chocolate, but too much of a good thing can make you sick.
Even holidays can be too much of a good thing if they're too long.
Because of various events or tasks that have kept you busy.
What with one thing and another, I forgot to call you.
With one thing and another, the project took longer than expected.
work it/things
idiomTo arrange something cleverly to achieve a desired result.
Can you work it so that we get a discount?
She worked things so that she could leave early.
work things/it
idiomTo arrange something cleverly to achieve a desired result.
He worked things so that he could take Friday off.
Can you work it so that we meet at noon?
Word family
- anythingpronounA1
- somethingpronounA1
- nothingpronounA1
- everythingpronounA2
- thingynounB1
- thingummynounB2
- thingamajignounB2
- thingnessnounC2
Synonym discussion
Sense: noun/1
"Thing" is the most general word for any physical entity when the exact name is unknown or irrelevant. "Object" is more formal and suggests a distinct, separate entity with clear boundaries, often used in scientific or technical contexts ("a metal object in the field"). "Item" implies one element in a collection or list ("each item on the menu"), emphasising membership in a set rather than physical properties. "Article" is the most formal, found in legal, commercial, or inventory descriptions ("an article of clothing"). For the physical-object sense, choose "object" when precision or formality is needed, "item" when listing or categorising, and "article" for official registers; otherwise "thing" is the everyday default.
Etymology
Old English "þing" originally meant 'assembly, meeting, council' (still seen in Icelandic Alþingi, the parliament). By the early medieval period it broadened to mean 'entity, matter, object' — from the notion of 'a matter brought before an assembly'. The semantic drift from 'meeting' to 'any entity' is one of English's most dramatic widenings, driven by everyday usage across Germanic languages.