Common Mistakes When Using ‘kind of’ in a Sentence

The phrase “kind of” is one of the most frequently misused expressions in everyday English. Many learners use it incorrectly in formal writing, confuse it with “kinds of,” or add unnecessary words like “a” in the wrong place. This guide explains exactly how to use “kind of” correctly, when to avoid it, and how to choose better alternatives for different situations.

Quick Answer: How to Use ‘kind of’ Correctly

“Kind of” has two main uses. First, as a qualifier meaning “somewhat” or “a little” (informal): I am kind of tired. Second, to describe a type or category: This is a kind of fruit. The most common mistake is using “kind of a” when you should use “kind of” alone, or mixing up singular and plural forms. For formal writing, replace “kind of” with “somewhat,” “rather,” or “a type of.”

Understanding the Two Meanings of ‘kind of’

To avoid mistakes, you must first recognize that “kind of” serves two very different functions. The context determines which meaning is intended.

1. ‘Kind of’ as a Qualifier (Informal)

In casual conversation, “kind of” means “to some extent” or “slightly.” It softens a statement and makes it less direct. This usage is common in spoken English and informal emails but is not appropriate for academic or professional writing.

• Correct: She is kind of nervous about the interview.
• Correct: I kind of like that song.
• Incorrect in formal writing: The results were kind of surprising.

2. ‘Kind of’ to Indicate a Type or Category

When “kind of” refers to a category, it is followed by a noun. This usage is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though careful writers often prefer “type of” or “sort of.”

• Correct: This is a kind of cheese from France.
• Correct: What kind of music do you enjoy?
• Correct: She bought a new kind of phone.

Common Mistakes with ‘kind of’

Here are the most frequent errors English learners make, along with explanations and corrections.

Mistake 1: Using ‘kind of a’ When You Mean ‘kind of’ as a Qualifier

Many learners add “a” after “kind of” when using it as a qualifier. This is grammatically incorrect.

• Incorrect: It is kind of a cold today.
• Correct: It is kind of cold today.
• Incorrect: He is kind of a rude.
• Correct: He is kind of rude.

When “kind of” means “somewhat,” it modifies an adjective or adverb directly. Do not insert “a” between them.

Mistake 2: Confusing ‘kind of’ with ‘kinds of’

Use “kind of” for a single type and “kinds of” for multiple types. This error is common when the noun that follows is plural.

• Incorrect: There are many kind of animals in the zoo.
• Correct: There are many kinds of animals in the zoo.
• Incorrect: This kind of cookies are delicious.
• Correct: This kind of cookie is delicious. (singular kind, singular noun)
• Correct: These kinds of cookies are delicious. (plural kinds, plural noun)

Mistake 3: Using ‘kind of’ in Formal Writing

“Kind of” as a qualifier is too informal for academic papers, business reports, or professional emails. Replace it with more precise words.

• Informal: The proposal is kind of vague.
• Formal: The proposal is somewhat vague.
• Informal: I am kind of interested in the position.
• Formal: I am moderately interested in the position.

Mistake 4: Adding ‘of’ After ‘kind’ Unnecessarily

Some learners write “kind of of” or use “of” twice. This is always wrong.

• Incorrect: What kind of of movie is this?
• Correct: What kind of movie is this?

Comparison Table: ‘kind of’ vs. Alternatives

Natural Examples of ‘kind of’ in Context

Read these examples to see how native speakers naturally use “kind of” in everyday situations.

• Conversation: “Are you ready for the test?” “I am kind of nervous, but I studied a lot.”
• Informal email: I am kind of hoping we can reschedule the meeting.
• Describing a category: This is a new kind of coffee that tastes like chocolate.
• Softening an opinion: I kind of think we should wait until next week.
• Asking a question: What kind of car do you drive?

When to Use ‘kind of’ and When to Avoid It

Knowing when to use “kind of” is just as important as knowing how to use it correctly.

Use ‘kind of’ when:

• You are speaking casually with friends or family.
• You are writing a personal email or text message.
• You want to soften a statement to sound less direct.
• You are asking about a category in everyday conversation.

Avoid ‘kind of’ when:

• You are writing a formal report, essay, or business proposal.
• You need to be precise and clear.
• You are speaking in a professional setting like a job interview or meeting.
• You are describing a category in academic writing (use “type of” instead).

Better Alternatives for ‘kind of’

If you want to sound more professional or precise, replace “kind of” with these alternatives depending on the context.

• For qualifier meaning “somewhat”: Use “somewhat,” “rather,” “fairly,” “moderately,” or “slightly.”
• For category meaning: Use “type of,” “variety of,” “category of,” or “sort of.”
• For softening a statement: Use “I think,” “perhaps,” or “maybe” instead of “kind of.”

Example comparison:

• Weak: I am kind of tired.
• Better: I am somewhat tired.
• Weak: This is a kind of problem we see often.
• Better: This is a type of problem we see often.

Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding

Choose the correct option for each sentence. Answers are below.

1. She is _____ upset about the news.
   a) kind of a
   b) kind of
   c) kinds of
2. There are several _____ birds in this forest.
   a) kind of
   b) kinds of
   c) kind of a
3. This is a new _____ technology.
   a) kind of
   b) kind of a
   c) kinds of
4. For a formal report, which sentence is better?
   a) The results were kind of surprising.
   b) The results were somewhat surprising.

Answers: 1. b, 2. b, 3. a, 4. b

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is ‘kind of’ always informal?

When “kind of” means “somewhat,” it is informal. When it means “a type of,” it is neutral and can be used in most contexts, though “type of” is often preferred in formal writing.

2. Can I start a sentence with ‘kind of’?

Yes, in informal speech and writing. For example: Kind of makes sense, doesn’t it? However, avoid this in formal writing.

3. What is the difference between ‘kind of’ and ‘sort of’?

They are nearly identical in meaning and formality. “Sort of” is slightly more common in British English, but both are used interchangeably in casual contexts.

4. How do I use ‘kind of’ with plural nouns?

Use “kinds of” with plural nouns. For example: These kinds of problems are common. Do not say “this kind of problems.”

Final Tips for Using ‘kind of’ Correctly

To master “kind of,” remember these three rules. First, never add “a” after “kind of” when it means “somewhat.” Second, match singular and plural forms: “kind of” with singular nouns, “kinds of” with plural nouns. Third, avoid “kind of” in formal writing and choose a more precise word instead. With practice, you will use this common phrase naturally and correctly in your daily English conversations and writing.

For more help with common usage mistakes, visit our Common Usage Mistakes section. You can also explore Simple Sentence Examples and Daily English Sentences for additional practice. If you have questions, check our FAQ page or contact us.