Such Meaning

UK /sʌtʃ/
US /sʌtʃ/
Word Definition
such meaning

Such Definition & Usage

adjective

Used to emphasize the extent, degree, or manner of something, often with an implied level of intensity or extremity.

Examples

  • "Such a beautiful view from this window!"
  • "He was such a good actor that he won an award."
  • "It’s such a long way to the nearest bus stop."
  • "Such behavior is completely unacceptable in this community."
  • "Such a decision requires careful consideration."
pronoun

Refers to something that is similar to what has already been mentioned or is being inferred.

Examples

  • "I’ve never seen such a thing before."
  • "She didn’t think such a situation would occur."
  • "I didn’t expect such a response from him."
  • "They will not tolerate such behavior in the future."
  • "Why would anyone do such a thing?"
determiner

Used in combination with singular or plural nouns to refer to a particular kind or extent of something.

Examples

  • "Such kindness should be rewarded."
  • "I’ve never met such an interesting person."
  • "Such ideas are revolutionary and should be supported."
  • "We haven’t encountered such problems before."
  • "The such qualities in her leadership were undeniable."
idiomatic phrase

Used to introduce or clarify a statement about something in its exact sense or role.

Examples

  • "He is the team leader, and as such, he has the final say."
  • "The situation is serious, and as such, we must act immediately."
  • "As such, the project is going ahead as planned."
  • "They were former employees, and as such, they are entitled to benefits."
  • "She is a qualified scientist, and as such, she should be consulted on the matter."

Cultural Context

The word 'such' is derived from the Old English 'swylce', which means 'like this' or 'in this way.' It has been a staple of English for centuries, evolving from an adjective and demonstrative to its more modern uses. It is often used to emphasize, describe, or refer back to a subject or idea.

The Curious Case of Such a Thing

Story

The Curious Case of Such a Thing

In a quiet village nestled between rolling hills, Emma sat by her window, looking out at the fields. It was such a peaceful view that it made her forget the stresses of the day. But her thoughts were soon interrupted by a knock at the door. It was Mr. Thompson, the local shopkeeper, who had never been one to visit without cause. 'Emma,' he said, 'I’ve never seen such a strange sight before. People have been saying that something odd is going on at the old mill.' Emma, intrigued by the mention of the mill, which had long been abandoned, followed him there. As they approached, they noticed something shimmering in the distance. 'It looks like… like a light,' Mr. Thompson murmured, 'But such a light should not be there.' They reached the mill, and sure enough, there was a strange glow emanating from the windows. Emma took a deep breath. 'Such a thing… it can’t be real, can it?' she whispered, her heart racing. After a long moment of hesitation, they entered the mill. Inside, to their amazement, they found an old, forgotten chest filled with glowing stones. 'Such a discovery!' Emma exclaimed, both excited and bewildered by what they had found. 'Who would have thought?' As they examined the chest, Emma realized that the stones were not ordinary—each one had a faint inscription that seemed to shimmer as though it had a story to tell. 'You know,' Mr. Thompson said, 'It’s a good thing we went looking for such a thing. I wouldn’t have believed it if I hadn’t seen it myself.' The discovery led them on an unexpected journey, one that would change the village forever. Emma’s thoughts turned to the light in the mill, wondering just how such things were possible. As they sat in the dusty room, the glow from the stones seemed to beckon them to uncover even more mysteries. In the days that followed, the village was buzzing with talk of 'such things'—miracles, mysteries, and unexpected finds. Emma learned that sometimes, the world hides wonders in the most unlikely places, and it was only through curiosity and courage that they could be uncovered.

The Curious Case of Such a Thing