it’s just the thing—that’s exactly what one wants or needs:
- “Would this be suitable, madam?” “Yes, it’s just the thing.”
Note: The expression does not correlate in meaning with the phrase it’s just one of those things—used of an unpleasant happening one cannot account for or do anything to prevent:
- Now, my wife is a terrible snorer. It’s just one of those things.
that’s the thing—that’s the point; that is indeed the reason:
- “License and registration please.” “Well, that’s the thing,” I stammered. “I was on my way to renew it right now.”