# things

/ˈθɪŋz/ (US) · /θˈɪŋz/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/things
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. objects or items

noun · CEFR A1

more than one object, item, or idea.

For teachers: the plural of 'thing', referring to multiple inanimate objects, entities, or abstract concepts.

- I have so many things to do before the party starts tonight.
- The box was filled with various things he had collected during his travels across Europe, including old coins and postcards.

### 2. personal possessions

noun · CEFR A2 · Informal

your personal belongings, like clothes, bags, or tools.

For teachers: personal belongings or equipment, often used collectively to refer to luggage or gear.

- Don't forget to pack your things before we leave for the airport.
- She gathered her things from the locker and headed toward the exit, relieved that the long shift was finally over.

### 3. the general situation

noun · CEFR B1

the way life or a situation is going at the moment.

For teachers: the general state of affairs or the prevailing circumstances in a specific context.

- Things are finally starting to improve at my new job.
- Despite the initial setbacks, things are looking up for the company as the new marketing strategy begins to take effect.

## Examples

- I need to pack my things for the trip.
- She has a lot of things to do before the office closes for the weekend.
- The philosopher argued that our perception of things is often colored by our previous experiences, making objective observation nearly impossible.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.