The Village Idiom

that's the thing

The idiom "that's the thing" is used to emphasize a crucial point or argument in a discussion or conversation.

Filed under T

In a sentence

  • That's the thing, I specifically told him to be here by 9 AM.
  • I can't believe he forgot the concert tickets again, that's the thing with him.
  • She always tries to impress others, but that's the thing, no one really cares.
  • In the first example, the phrase is used to emphasize the fact that the person had specifically told someone to be somewhere at a certain time.
  • The second example uses the idiom to convey frustration or annoyance with someone who repeatedly forgets something.
  • The third example illustrates the use of the idiom to indicate that someone's efforts to impress others are futile because no one actually cares.

Where it comes from and how it is used

That's the thing is related to several idiomatic phrases such as "that's that", "that's saying something", "that's done it", "so there", and "that's that on that". These idioms share a similar structure and usage with "that's the thing" and further enhance the meaning and versatility of the phrase.

Starting with "that's that", this idiom is commonly used to indicate an inevitable or conclusive end to a situation or discussion. It is often used when there is nothing more to be said or done about a particular matter. When used in conjunction with "that's the thing", it emphasizes the finality or closure of the main point being made. For example, if someone is discussing a failed business venture, they might say, "It was a difficult decision to close the company, but that's the thing, it just wasn't profitable."

Similarly, "that's saying something" is an idiom that is used to emphasize the significance or importance of a statement. It is often used to highlight a notable or surprising aspect of a situation or achievement. In combination with "that's the thing", it further emphasizes the importance or relevance of the main point being made. For instance, if someone is talking about their friend's incredible work ethic, they might say, "She never misses a deadline, and that's saying something. It's truly remarkable."

"So there" is an idiom that is used to conclude or summarize a point, similar to "that's that". It is often used to express a sense of finality or certainty. When used in conjunction with "that's the thing", it adds emphasis or emphasis to the conclusion or main point being made. For instance, if someone is explaining why they prefer a certain type of music, they might say, "The lyrics are meaningful, the melodies are catchy, and so there, that's the thing. It just resonates with me."

Finally, "that's that on that" is an idiom that is used to firmly close a discussion or argument. It is often used when there is no room for further debate or disagreement. When combined with "that's the thing", it emphasizes the finality or conclusiveness of the main point being made. For example, if someone is explaining why they don't agree with a controversial opinion, they might say, "I've heard all the arguments, I've considered all the perspectives, and that's the thing on that. I just can't support it."

"that's the thing" is a versatile phrase that can have multiple meanings depending on the context in which it is used. It can introduce a main point, express agreement or confirmation, signify understanding or realization, or highlight a difficulty or challenge. When combined with idioms such as "that's that", "that's saying something", "that's done it", "so there", and "that's that on that", it further enhances the meaning and impact of the main point being made. The continued use and evolution of these idioms demonstrate the richness and complexity of the English language and its idiomatic expressions.

Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.