thing
word
/ˈθɪŋ/
THING
/θˈɪŋ/
THING
Definition
A general word used to refer to an object, idea, or situation when you don't or can't be more specific.
Usage & Nuances
Informal and very common; used in both spoken and written English. Often used as a placeholder when the exact name is unknown or unimportant. Can refer to objects, ideas, events, or situations.
Spanish: cosa - objetoPortuguese (BR): coisa - objetoPortuguese (PT): coisa - objetoChinese (Simplified): 东西 - 物品Chinese (Traditional): 東西 - 物品Hindi: चीज़Arabic: شيء - غرضBengali: জিনিস - বস্তুRussian: вещь - предметJapanese: ものVietnamese: đồ - thứ - vậtKorean: 것Turkish: şeyUrdu: چیزIndonesian: benda - barang - hal
Example Sentences
Can you pass me that thing on the table?
basic
She bought a new thing for her room.
basic
I forgot my thing at home.
basic
That party last night was a weird thing.
natural
I don’t like to talk about personal things.
natural
What's the next thing we should do?
natural