Meaning
Introduces a crucial fact, explanation, or excuse, often to soften sensitive information
Primary Function
explanatory focus opener
Communicative Purpose
draws attention to the core issue
Pattern
The thing is
Core Structure
The thing is
Função primária
explanatory focus opener
Propósito comunicativo
draws attention to the core issue
Situações de gatilho
explaining something sensitive, justifying a decision, softening a refusal
Contextos
informal conversations, meetings, personal emails
Padrão
The thing is
Estrutura central
The thing is
Slots de substituição
can be followed by a clause or expanded to 'The thing is that ...'
Colocados típicos
- time constraints
- financial limitations
- unforeseen circumstances
Substituições comuns
- The point is
- The fact is
Erros comuns
omitting 'is', adding unnecessary words
Similar / contraste
The point is, It's just that
Interferências
Learners may combine this phrase with adverbs like 'because' or 'although', creating ungrammatical constructions such as 'The thing is because...' instead of 'The thing is, ... because...'.
Família do chunk
- explanatory openers
Nuance
creates an intimate tone, softening bad news delivery
Efeito pragmático
reduces social distance by signaling essential details
Dica de memória
essential detail
Nota
This chunk is used to introduce an important fact, explanation, or excuse. It draws attention to the core issue or real reason and is often used to soften the delivery of sensitive information. It is a fixed expression that can be followed by a clause or expanded to 'The thing is that ...'. Common variations include 'Here's the thing' for a more conversational opener, and substitutions like 'The point is' or 'The fact is'. Learners should be cautious not to use 'the thing' without 'is' as a subject or to combine it with adverbs like 'because' or 'although'.
Upgrade path
from simple reasons to formal openings
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