the thing is: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘the thing is’ mean?
The idiom the thing is is used to introduce a statement or explanation, often after a pause, to make a point or emphasize a specific aspect of a situation or problem.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "what is more" is used to introduce an additional and often more important point or piece of information in a conversation or argument.
The idiom "truth be told" is used to preface a statement in which the speaker is admitting or revealing something that may be surprising, candid, or contradicts previous statements.
The idiom "to tell the truth" means being honest and sincere in one's statement or confession.
The idiom "to speak of" means to mention or discuss a particular subject or topic. It is used to draw attention to something noteworthy or significant.
The idiom "to do with" is used to indicate a connection or relevance between two things or people. It implies that something relates to, is associated with, or is about a particular subject or topic.
The idiom "to be honest" means to speak or express one's true thoughts, opinions, or feelings without deception or dishonesty.
The idiom "to all intents and purposes" means essentially or practically. It is used to emphasize that something is virtually true or almost certain.
The idiom "time will tell" means that the truth or outcome of a situation will only become clear or known with the passage of time.
An idiom that refers to taking a break or having a period of rest from work or other responsibilities.
The idiom "thus and such" is used to refer to an unspecified or indeterminate group of things or events. It is often used to suggest that the speaker cannot remember or does not wish to go into specific details about them.
Quintessential Interpretation
The idiom "that's the thing" is closely related to "the thing is" and is often used interchangeably. It is used to introduce a key point or a crucial aspect of a situation or argument. The phrase implies that the speaker is about to reveal a significant piece of information or provide an important clarification.
When used in conversations, "that's the thing" can serve as a transition or a bridge to connect different ideas or concepts. It helps to maintain the flow of the conversation and keeps the listener engaged. The phrase is often employed to bring attention to a specific point or to emphasize the relevance of a particular issue.
Another related idiom is "the reality is." This phrase is used to present a fact or a truth that may be difficult to accept or acknowledge. It is frequently employed to convey a sense of honesty and directness. By using "the reality is," individuals can emphasize the importance of facing a particular situation or accepting a certain truth.
Similarly, "fact is" is an idiomatic expression that is used to introduce a piece of information or to state a truth. It is often used as a way to present evidence or support for an argument. By using "fact is," individuals can assert the validity of a statement and provide concrete evidence to back up their claims.
Another related phrase is "what is more." This idiom is used to introduce an additional point or to emphasize the significance of an idea in comparison to other points. It is often employed to add weight to an argument or to highlight the importance of a specific aspect. By using "what is more," individuals can draw attention to a significant detail or offer a compelling reason to support their position.
Finally, "there you have it" is a common phrase that is used to conclude a discussion or to summarize the main points. It is often employed to provide closure or to signal the end of a conversation. By using "there you have it," individuals can indicate that they have presented all the necessary information or that they have reached a final conclusion.
The idiom "the thing is" is a versatile phrase that can be traced back to colloquial English. It is used to introduce explanations, provide clarifications, and express personal perspectives. It can also serve as a tool for managing expectations and potential disagreement. When combined with related idioms such as "that's the thing," "the reality is," "fact is," "what is more," and "there you have it," the conversation becomes more coherent and engaging. These idioms enhance communication and facilitate the exchange of ideas by emphasizing key points, presenting facts, and summarizing important information.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "the thing is" can be used in a sentence:
- The thing is, I don't really enjoy spicy food.
- She wanted to go to the party, but the thing is, she had to work late.
- The thing is, I haven't finished my homework yet.
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