something

/ˈsʌmθɪŋ/
pronounBeginner an unspecified thing or amount
general

an unspecified thing or amount

Can I have something to drink?

The speaker is asking for a beverage without specifying which one.

There's something in the way.

An obstacle or issue is present, but it is not identified.

💡

Often used to refer to an unspecified object, event, or quantity.

Collocations

something like thatan unspecified similar thingsomething elsean additional unspecified thing

Antonyms

Related Phrases

something like thatphrase
an unspecified similar thing
something elsephrase
an additional unspecified thing

💡Pro Tip

Usage in Questions

Use 'something' in questions when you want to ask about an unspecified item or topic, e.g., 'Can I have something to eat?'

Gold Rule

Indefinite Reference

'Something' is used to refer to an unspecified or unknown thing, event, or amount.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'some thing', from Old English 'sum þing'.

📝Usage Notes

Commonly used to refer to an unspecified object, event, or quantity. Often used in questions or to introduce an unspecified topic.

Word Breakdown

some
an unspecified amount or quantity
determiner
+
thing
an object or entity
noun
English Dictionary