Cool MateThe point is vs You know here's the thing
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
The point is
Top 2,000 (common)
You know here's the thing
InformalBeyond 10,000 (less common)
Most formal: The point isMost common: The point is
| The point is | You know here's the thing | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 //ðə pɔɪnt ɪz//🇺🇸 //ðə pɔɪnt ɪz// | 🇬🇧 //jʊ nəʊ hɪəz ðə θɪŋ//🇺🇸 //ju noʊ hɪrz ðə θɪŋ// |
| Meaning | The main message or idea is | A way to introduce an important point in a conversation. |
| Example | I think the point is that we need to work together. | You know here's the thing, we really need to consider the budget. |
| Register | Neutral | Informal |
| How common | Top 2,000 (common) | Beyond 10,000 (less common) |
| Collocations | the point is clear, the point is not to, the point is made | you know here's the thing about, you know here's the thing when, you know here's the thing and, you know here's the thing with |
| Common mistakes | Not using it to emphasize an important idea., Using it at the beginning of a sentence instead of mid-sentence., Confusing it with 'the reason is'. | Using in formal contexts like business meetings., Omitting it in arguments; it helps to clarify main points., Misplacing it within a sentence; it should start a thought. |
| Usage notes | Used to clarify or emphasize the main idea in a discussion. It can be used formally and informally. Avoid in overly casual conversations. | Used in casual conversations to highlight a main idea. Not suitable for formal writing or speeches. |
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Frequently asked questions: The point is vs You know here's the thing
What's the difference between The point is and You know here's the thing?
The point is: The main message or idea is You know here's the thing: A way to introduce an important point in a conversation.
Which is more formal: The point is and You know here's the thing?
The point is is the most formal of these.
Which is more common: The point is and You know here's the thing?
The point is is the most common in everyday English.
Can you show an example of each?
The point is: I think the point is that we need to work together. You know here's the thing: You know here's the thing, we really need to consider the budget.
Can I use The point is and You know here's the thing interchangeably?
Not always. The point is and You know here's the thing are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.