An amusing detail

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "An amusing detail" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a specific piece of information or fact that is entertaining or humorous in nature. Example: "In her memoir, she included an amusing detail about her first day at work that had everyone laughing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

An amusing detail of "8 1/2" is that the film that the beleaguered Anselmi is trying to get off the ground is science fiction.

The New Yorker

That might sound like an amusing detail, until you remember that monitoring a thermostat is a good way to know when someone is home.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

An amusing item is Lafon's letter to the actor Talma written probably in 1803, regretting the prominence with which Talma's name appeared on advertising posters.

Johns Hopkins University

(An amusing installation detail: the real screen is displayed in the gallery's front window).

The New York Times

In "Holy Family With Saints John the Baptist and Anne," an elaborate scene made for an engraver to convert into a print, he incorporates another amusing detail: the image is outlined to create the trompe l'oeil effect of a sheet of paper pinned to a wall.

The New York Times - Arts

Such matters as family relations, property rights, land tenure, and commodity prices are dealt with in great and sometimes pedantic or amusing detail.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But at the urging of Meat Loaf, Mr. Klein focuses mainly on the 2007 concerts, with the preparation depicted in frank, often amusing detail.

The New York Times

But the amusing detail of Nim's humanlike behavior belies his unfortunate existence: stuck in a no man's land where he was raised like a boy but was shuttled about and confined like a beast.

The New York Times

Brooks Atkinson, in The New York Times, summed up her work as superb and called it a "glowing performance that is full of amusing detail -- cheap, ignorant, bewildered, but also radiant with personality".

The New York Times - Arts

(Ages 4 to 7) Olivia, a calm, composed, orderly teenager, delivers a detailed catalog of her little sister Sophie's huge capacity for chaos, which is shown in amusing detail.

The New York Times - Books

One amusing detail, though, seems worth highlighting as McConnell embarks on his latest reelection campaign.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an amusing detail" to highlight a specific element that adds humor or interest to a narrative or description. It's particularly effective when the detail is unexpected or ironic.

Common error

Avoid using "an amusing detail" too frequently within a single piece of writing. Overuse can diminish its impact and make the writing seem repetitive. Vary your phrasing by using alternatives like "a comical element" or "a delightful subtlety".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "An amusing detail" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or appositive. It serves to identify or describe a specific aspect that is considered humorous or entertaining within a broader context, as validated by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "An amusing detail" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that serves to highlight a humorous or interesting aspect within a larger context. According to Ludwig, its versatility allows it to be employed across various domains, including News & Media and Academia. While alternatives like "a comical element" and "a delightful subtlety" exist, it's best to avoid overuse of the phrase to maintain its impact. Remember to use it judiciously to add levity or intrigue to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A comical element

Focuses on the humorous aspect of the detail.

A funny particularity

Highlights the odd or peculiar nature of the detail.

An entertaining factoid

Emphasizes the brief and engaging nature of the detail.

A curious aspect

Shifts the focus to the intriguing or unusual side of the detail.

A delightful subtlety

Underscores the pleasant and understated quality of the detail.

A noteworthy quirk

Points out the peculiar or eccentric nature of the detail.

An intriguing facet

Highlights the captivating or fascinating part of the detail.

A remarkable feature

Stresses the exceptional or striking nature of the detail.

A peculiar characteristic

Emphasizes the strange or unusual nature of the detail.

A whimsical touch

Focuses on the playful or fanciful nature of the detail.

FAQs

How can I use "An amusing detail" in a sentence?

You can use "An amusing detail" to introduce a specific fact or element that adds humor or interest to a story or description. For example, "An amusing detail of the story is that the detective was afraid of cats".

What are some alternatives to saying "An amusing detail"?

You can use alternatives like "a comical element", "a funny particularity", or "an entertaining factoid" depending on the context.

Is it okay to use "An amusing detail" in formal writing?

While "An amusing detail" is generally acceptable, consider the tone of your writing. In highly formal contexts, you might prefer a more neutral phrase like "a noteworthy aspect" or "an intriguing facet".

What makes a detail "amusing"?

A detail is considered "amusing" if it provokes laughter, lightheartedness, or a sense of mild entertainment. It often involves an element of surprise, irony, or unexpectedness.