Design

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Design" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the process of creating or planning something, typically in the context of art, architecture, or product development. Example: "The design of the new building incorporates sustainable materials and modern aesthetics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Travel

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Our designers, our engineers, are inspired by great products and by great design out there.

The Guardian - Tech

Malofiej Awards, April 2006 The Guardian won two silver awards for graphic design.

The Guardian

In a design statement that verges on farce, Mayne describes the proposal as "a minimalist act that reiterates the site and offers to the viewer a mirrored, refracted perspective of the landscape".

The Guardian - Arts

The original roots of the "corporate identity" business lay in design-led American companies which, from the 30s to the 50s, rationalised the look of great corporations through the application of massive design programmes.

The Guardian

Wolff had studied architecture and design and had been working in a small London design partnership when they met and started their groundbreaking brand consultancy Wolff Olins in 1965.

The Guardian

When he came to give a talk at the college, the room was packed with business students of many nationalities who lapped up his observations on design and branding and bathed him in admiration and affection.

The Guardian

We just launched a design your own boots service and I have designed a lovely pair for spring.

The Guardian

The latest Chilcot report concludes that while it is feasible to design a legally compliant regime, the use of intercept evidence would not be consistent with previous operational requirements and would incur significant costs and risks for uncertain benefits in terms of increased numbers of successful prosecutions.

The Guardian

No experience of graphic design is necessary, as the course provides an introduction to classic data visualisation templates – for simple and more involved infographics – that give statistics an impact that words can't match.

The Guardian

We design a new production for every venue that is kind enough to invite us.

The Guardian

At fashion boutique Bodice, owner Ruchika Sachdeva offers androgynous design, unconventional cuts and uses traditional methods such as block printing.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "design" to indicate intention or purpose, but ensure the context clearly supports this meaning to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "design" as a generic term for aesthetics. Instead, provide specific details about the visual characteristics to enhance clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The word "design" functions as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a plan, pattern, or artistic creation. As a verb, it means to plan or create something. Ludwig provides numerous examples of both usages.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Arts

12%

Travel

6%

Less common in

Tech

5%

Books

3%

Opinion

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Design" is a versatile word functioning as both a noun and a verb, denoting plans, patterns, or the act of creating. It's a common term across various domains, particularly in news, arts, and travel, as evidenced by Ludwig's extensive examples. Its register is generally neutral, making it suitable for diverse audiences. While grammatically correct, vague usage should be avoided by providing specific details to enhance clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Plan

Emphasizes the arrangement and organization of elements.

Blueprint

Focuses on the detailed planning aspect of design.

Layout

Relates specifically to the arrangement of elements within a space or format.

Arrangement

Highlights the way in which elements are organized.

Configuration

Suggests a specific arrangement or form of something.

Composition

Refers to the organization of elements in art or music.

Scheme

Implies a systematic plan or arrangement.

Intention

Focuses on the purpose or aim behind a design.

Purpose

Highlights the reason or goal for which something is designed.

Pattern

Emphasizes a repeated decorative design.

FAQs

How is "Design" used as a verb?

As a verb, "Design" means to plan and create something, often with a specific purpose or function in mind. For example, "They "design" software for educational purposes".

What are some nouns that collocate well with "Design"?

Common nouns used with "Design" include "product", "graphic", "interior", "web", and "fashion". For example, "The product "design" is innovative and user-friendly".

What is the difference between "Design" and "Planning"?

"Design" often refers to the aesthetic and functional aspects of creating something, while "Planning" focuses more on the strategic and logistical aspects. The "design" phase might involve creating blueprints, whereas planning involves setting timelines and budgets.

How can I avoid vagueness when using "Design"?

To avoid vagueness, provide context and specific details. Instead of saying "The "design" is good", specify what makes it good: "The user interface "design" is intuitive and efficient".