Have you ever wondered whether to write “what kind” or “what kinds” in your sentence? Many English learners and even native speakers get confused between these two phrases. The good news is that both are correct, but they are used in different situations. “What kind” is used when you are asking about a single type or category, while “what kinds” is used when you expect multiple types or categories as an answer. Understanding this difference helps you communicate more clearly and accurately in both spoken and written English.
Beyond just choosing between “what kind” and “what kinds,” there is a whole world of alternatives that can make your writing more interesting, varied, and professional. In this article, you will find 35+ correct alternatives to both phrases, along with clear examples and explanations to help you use them confidently in any situation.
When Should You Use These Alternatives?
Using alternatives to “what kind” or “what kinds” makes your writing sound more natural, professional, and varied. You should use these alternatives when you want to avoid repeating the same phrase too many times in a piece of writing. They are also helpful when you are writing formal emails, academic essays, or business reports where word variety matters. Choosing the right alternative depending on context can make your question sound more precise and thoughtful.
Avoid Using These Alternatives When:
You are writing a very simple, casual conversation where fancy vocabulary feels out of place. You should also avoid them when your audience is young children or non-native English speakers who may not understand complex phrasing. Do not replace “what kind” with an alternative just for the sake of it if the original phrase fits perfectly well.
27+ Other Ways to Say “What Kind / What Kinds”
1. “What Type of”
This is one of the most common and natural replacements for “what kind of.” It works in almost every situation, both formal and informal.
Example: What type of music do you enjoy listening to on weekends?
2. “What Types of”
Use this when you expect more than one answer or are asking about multiple possibilities.
Example: What types of fruits are grown in tropical countries?
3. “Which Kind of”
This alternative adds a sense of selection, as if there are specific options to choose from.
Example: Which kind of coffee would you prefer, black or with milk?
4. “Which Kinds of”
Use this when referring to multiple categories within a defined set.
Example: Which kinds of exercises are best for building core strength?
5. “What Sort of”
This phrase has a slightly British tone and works well in both spoken and written English.
Example: What sort of person do you think would enjoy this book?
6. “What Sorts of”
The plural version is perfect when asking about a range or variety of things.
Example: What sorts of problems did you face during the project?
7. “What Category of”
This is a more formal and structured alternative, often used in academic or professional writing.
Example: What category of law does this case fall under?
8. “What Categories of”
Use this when discussing multiple groups or classifications together.
Example: What categories of products are available in this online store?
9. “What Form of”
This phrase is great when asking about the shape, structure, or format of something.
Example: What form of payment does this restaurant accept?
10. “What Forms of”
Use the plural when multiple formats or structures are possible.
Example: What forms of identification are required to open a bank account?
11. “What Version of”
This works especially well in technology, software, or updated editions of something.
Example: What version of the software are you currently using on your laptop?
12. “What Versions of”
Use this when asking about multiple editions or variations of something.
Example: What versions of this textbook are available in the library?
13. “What Style of”
This is perfect when discussing design, fashion, writing, or creative work.
Example: What style of architecture is most popular in your city?
14. “What Styles of”
Use this when you expect a variety of creative or design-based answers.
Example: What styles of painting did Picasso explore throughout his career?
15. “What Variety of”
This phrase emphasizes diversity or uniqueness within a category.
Example: What variety of rose is known for its strong fragrance?
16. “What Varieties of”
Use this when asking about multiple different types within a broader group.
Example: What varieties of apples are best for making pies?
17. “What Model of”
This is commonly used when discussing products, devices, or manufactured items.
Example: What model of car are you planning to purchase this year?
18. “What Models of”
Use this when asking about multiple product options or designs.
Example: What models of smartphones were released in the last six months?
19. “What Nature of”
This is a more formal and sophisticated phrase used in professional or legal contexts.
Example: What nature of complaint did the customer file against the company?
20. “What Kind Exactly”
Adding “exactly” makes the question more specific and shows you want a precise answer.
Example: What kind exactly are you referring to? Can you be more specific?
21. “What Specific Kind of”
This phrase signals that you want a detailed and exact answer, not a general one.
Example: What specific kind of therapy is recommended for anxiety disorders?
22. “What Exactly Do You Mean by”
This is used when you need clarification and want the other person to explain their meaning clearly.
Example: What exactly do you mean by saying the situation is complicated?
23. “Which Type Would You Say”
This phrase invites the other person to share their opinion or judgment on a category.
Example: Which type would you say is more effective for beginners in yoga?
24. “What Group Does It Belong to”
This alternative focuses on classification and is useful in scientific or academic discussions.
Example: What group does this insect belong to according to modern biology?
25. “How Would You Describe the Kind of”
This is a thoughtful and open-ended alternative that encourages a detailed explanation.
Example: How would you describe the kind of leadership style that works best in a startup?
26. “What Classification Does It Fall Under”
This is a highly formal phrase used in technical, scientific, or academic writing.
Example: What classification does this newly discovered plant species fall under?
27. “What Exactly Are You Looking for”
This phrase shifts the focus to the person’s needs or preferences and is great in customer service or interviews.
Example: What exactly are you looking for in a new job opportunity?
28. “What Brand of”
This is useful when asking about manufactured goods, consumer products, or commercial items.
Example: What brand of laptop do most graphic designers prefer for creative work?
29. “What Genre of”
Perfect for conversations about books, films, music, or any creative content.
Example: What genre of novels do you enjoy reading before going to sleep?
30. “What Range of”
This phrase is useful when asking about a spectrum or scale of options.
Example: What range of prices should I expect when buying a decent camera?
31. “What Pattern of”
Great for discussing trends, behaviors, or recurring structures in data or life.
Example: What pattern of behavior is most commonly seen in introverted people?
32. “What Class of”
This works well in scientific, educational, or hierarchical discussions.
Example: What class of medication is typically prescribed for high blood pressure?
33. “What Format of”
Ideal when asking about the structure, layout, or presentation of something.
Example: What format of resume is most preferred by hiring managers today?
34. “What Mode of”
This phrase is useful when asking about methods, systems, or ways of doing something.
Example: What mode of transportation is the most eco-friendly for daily commuting?
35. “What Degree of”
Use this when asking about intensity, level, or extent of something.
Example: What degree of experience is required to apply for this position?
36. “What Flavor of”
This works both literally for food and figuratively for styles or approaches.
Example: What flavor of humor does this comedian usually bring to his shows?
Bonus Section: Polite and Professional Variations
When writing in a formal or professional setting, the way you phrase your question matters just as much as the words you choose. Instead of asking bluntly “What kind is this?” you can soften your question with polite alternatives.
Phrases like “Could you tell me what type of…” or “Would you mind clarifying what sort of…” show respect and professionalism. In business emails, using “May I ask what category this falls under?” sounds far more polished than a direct question. These polite variations are especially useful in customer service, job interviews, academic writing, and any situation where tone and impression matter.
Conclusion
Having a strong list of alternatives to “what kind” and “what kinds” gives your writing and speech a much-needed variety and depth. Whether you are writing a formal report, sending a professional email, or simply having a conversation, choosing the right phrase makes a real difference.
From “what type of” to “what degree of,” each alternative carries its own slight shade of meaning, so pick the one that best fits your context. With these 35+ options in your vocabulary, you will never feel stuck using the same phrase again.
James Alexander is a passionate writer with over 4 years of experience creating helpful, engaging, and easy-to-read content. He enjoys writing about prayers, blessings, lifestyle topics, and inspirational ideas that connect with readers around the world. With a strong focus on quality and originality, James works to create content that informs, inspires, and adds value to every reader’s experience.
