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The thing is ...

Phrase of the day

Discover a new phrase each day to use in your English! These are special phrases and sayings that English speakers use all the time, but you don't often see these phrases in English course books or other study material. Visit daily to learn some popular English phrases on a regular basis.

8 June 2026

The thing is ...

We use this expression to introduce a problem.

Written: Yes

Spoken: Yes

Formal: No

Informal: Yes

Example 1

Can you come to the party tomorrow?

Normally I'd love to. The thing is, I've got to be in New York the next day, so ...

Example 2

Don't you like cake?

Yes, I do. The thing is, I'm on a diet.

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Apr2026
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