In detail

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "In detail" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used when you want to provide a thorough and comprehensive explanation or description of a subject. Example: "The report outlines the project timeline in detail, ensuring that all stakeholders are informed of the key milestones."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In detail, please.

Huffington Post

Describes the presentation in detail.

The New Yorker

Describes the games in detail.

The New Yorker

Describes Skylab'd interior in detail.

The New Yorker

Describes the participants in detail.

The New Yorker

Many differences in detail exist.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Describe it in detail.

The New York Times

The jihadists, likewise, are portrayed in detail.

The New Yorker

Britten's childhood is discussed in detail.

The New York Times - Books

I explained it stupidly, in detail.

The New Yorker

The 1966 championships covered in detail.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When asking for information, use "in detail" to clearly indicate that you require a comprehensive explanation, ensuring all aspects are covered.

Common error

Avoid using "in detail" redundantly when the context already implies a thorough explanation. For example, instead of saying "Explain the process in detail in detail", simply say "Explain the process in detail".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in detail" functions primarily as an adverbial modifier, providing additional information about a verb or clause. As Ludwig AI shows, it emphasizes the thoroughness or comprehensiveness of an action or description.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

27%

Wiki

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in detail" is a common adverbial phrase used to emphasize thoroughness and comprehensiveness. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use across various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources. While alternatives like "thoroughly" or "comprehensively" exist, "in detail" clearly signals the expectation or provision of a complete explanation. To avoid redundancy, it's best to use it judiciously. Remember that the primary goal is clarity and precision in communication, and "in detail" can be a valuable tool when used effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

thoroughly

This alternative emphasizes completeness and careful attention to all aspects, mirroring the comprehensive nature of "in detail".

comprehensively

This alternative highlights the inclusion of all relevant elements, similar to providing a complete account "in detail".

exhaustively

This alternative suggests a complete and thorough examination, leaving no aspect unconsidered, much like examining something "in detail".

extensively

This option conveys a wide-ranging and thorough treatment of a subject, reflecting the depth implied by "in detail".

meticulously

This alternative emphasizes carefulness and precision in handling details, similar to examining something "in detail" with great attention.

with precision

This phrase stresses accuracy and exactness, highlighting the detailed nature of the information provided.

at length

This option emphasizes the duration and completeness of the explanation, similar to providing a very detailed account.

point by point

This phrase indicates a systematic and thorough presentation, addressing each element individually and completely.

with particularity

This alternative stresses the specific and individual nature of the details provided, similar to giving a very detailed and focused account.

step by step

This option indicates a sequential and thorough explanation, guiding the reader through each detail methodically.

FAQs

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

You can use "in detail" to request or provide a comprehensive explanation, such as, "Please describe the project "in detail"" or "The report outlines the findings "in detail"".

What are some alternatives to saying "in detail"?

Alternatives include "thoroughly", "comprehensively", or "exhaustively", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to use "in detail" multiple times in one sentence?

Yes, using "in detail" repeatedly can be redundant. Aim for conciseness by using it once or rephrasing to avoid repetition. For example, instead of "Explain the process "in detail" "in detail"", try "Provide a detailed explanation of the process".

What's the difference between "in detail" and "briefly"?

"In detail" implies a thorough and comprehensive explanation, while "briefly" suggests a concise and summarized account. They are antonyms, serving opposite purposes in communication. If you are ask to do something briefly, you should avoid going "in detail".