noun
a physical object when its exact name is unknown, unimportant, or not said
What is that thing on the table?
I left my keys next to the small thing.
Common phrases & grammar
this/that + thing
the thing + that + subject + verb
American English
How to pronounce thing
nounA1Very common word
THIHNG
/θɪŋ/
One syllable.
a physical object when its exact name is unknown, unimportant, or not said
Practice out loudMeanings & examples
noun
a matter, idea, fact, or situation that is being discussed in a general way
The best thing about this job is the people.
The thing is, we need more time.
Good to know
Thing is very common in conversation, but in formal writing a more exact word is often better.
Common phrases & grammar
the main thing · the important thing · the same thing · one thing
the thing about + noun/pronoun + is + adjective/noun
The thing is, + subject + verb
noun
objects that belong to a person, especially when they are considered together
Please pack your things before dinner.
She left her things at my house.
Good to know
For a group of belongings, use the plural things.
Common phrases & grammar
personal things · pack your things
my/your/his/her + things
pack/bring + my/your/his/her + things
noun
an activity, task, or event when its exact name is not given
I have a few things to do this morning.
We did some fun things on our trip.
Common phrases & grammar
things to do · do things · make things happen
have + things + to + verb
do + things + with + noun
Useful expressions
used to introduce the main problem or fact
The thing is, I don't have enough money.
one event caused another, often unexpectedly
One thing led to another, and we missed the train.
do what you want in your own way
At the party, everyone did their own thing.