a basic outline

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a basic outline" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a simple or general description of a plan, structure, or framework for a project or topic. Example: "Before we dive into the details, let's start with a basic outline of our presentation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

He'd compiled a basic outline of questions he wished to ask, but his main goal was to remain fluid, adaptive and attentive to Washington's testimony.

The New Yorker

-Write a basic outline of their presentation, focusing on making and defending recommendations on what should be done next (preservation, restoration, etc).

The New York Times

The deal had effectively been in place since late last week, when the Knicks and Stoudemire's agent agreed to a basic outline, pending in-person discussions.

The New York Times - Sports

It's a basic outline of a mountain, and there's a swallow near it, and it looks like someone shoved a marker pen into Blue Ivy's hand and said "Draw".

The Guardian - Opinion

"We have a good chance to have a basic outline to create a unified labor movement for the first time ever," said Larry Cohen, president of the communications workers' union.

The New York Times

This kind of exhaustive treatment of an artist's work makes more sense in jazz, in which musicians improvise over a skeletal framework, painting emotional colors over a basic outline.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

Make a very basic outline of the words.

WikiHow

Make yourself a very basic outline of the house during the time when your kids are scavenging the house for the clues, making sure all notes have been properly found.

WikiHow

Lyse Doucet says all sides are hoping to reach an agreement on the basic outline of a final nuclear deal, although there are "gaps remaining on key issues".

BBC

Make it look like a disc so you could remember the basic outline of a daisy flower whenever you draw one.

WikiHow

Every Taiwanese temple is a variation on this basic outline and no two are exactly alike.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When creating a complex document or presentation, start with "a basic outline" to ensure a logical flow of ideas and to avoid getting bogged down in details too early.

Common error

Avoid making "a basic outline" too granular. Focus on main headings and key points. You can always add detail later.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a basic outline" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage across diverse texts. The examples show it describing the initial structure or framework of various concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

28%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a basic outline" is a common and versatile noun phrase used to describe a preliminary plan or structure. As Ludwig AI's analysis shows, it is grammatically correct and appears frequently in a variety of sources, including news, scientific publications, and wikis. The phrase is characterized by its neutral register, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication. When writing, use "a basic outline" to provide readers with an accessible framework or a starting point for complex discussions, remembering not to make it overly detailed initially. Related phrases such as "a general framework" or "a simple plan" can serve as useful alternatives depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a general framework

Highlights the broad structure and organization.

a preliminary sketch

Implies a rough, early-stage plan or drawing.

a foundational layout

Highlights the underlying organization upon which more can be built.

a simple plan

Focuses on the uncomplicated nature of the arrangement.

an initial blueprint

Implies a design intended for future construction.

a rough draft

Suggests a version that is not yet finalized.

a skeletal framework

Emphasizes the fundamental structure without details.

a primary scheme

Implies a foundational arrangement or design.

a rudimentary structure

Indicates a very basic, undeveloped arrangement.

a tentative roadmap

Suggests a plan that is subject to change.

FAQs

How can I use "a basic outline" in a sentence?

You can use "a basic outline" to describe the initial plan or structure of something. For example, "Before writing the report, I created "a basic outline" to organize my thoughts."

What's the difference between "a basic outline" and "a detailed plan"?

"A basic outline" is a general overview, while "a detailed plan" includes specific information and steps. Use "a basic outline" for initial planning and a detailed plan when you have more concrete information.

What can I say instead of "a basic outline"?

You can use alternatives like "a general framework", "a preliminary sketch", or "a simple plan" depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to create "a basic outline" before starting a project?

While not always strictly necessary, creating "a basic outline" can help you organize your thoughts, identify potential problems, and save time in the long run. It's particularly useful for complex projects.