a captivating detail

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a captivating detail" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a specific aspect of something that is particularly interesting or engaging. Example: "The author included a captivating detail about the protagonist's childhood that added depth to the story."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

This is another close-up, a captivating detail that depicts the whole.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

It is a beautiful and meticulous artifact, as full of captivating detail as the M.T.A.'s new subway map is devoid of it.

The New Yorker

Gesualdo's influences on the present and recent past are explored in captivating detail in "The Gesualdo Hex," a book by Glenn Watkins.

The New York Times - Arts

Drawing on his direct experience of recent popular unrest, from the Occupy movement to the wave of riots and blockades that began in Ferguson, Missouri, Phil A. Neel provides a close-up view of this landscape in all its grim but captivating detail.

University of Chicago

After a while, however, it comes to seem a sign of nervousness, an indication that the author fears losing his readers without the gaudy brush stroke or captivating detail.

The New York Times - Books

Buy from Amazon.com, Amazon.co.ukA COMPELLING account of the hunt for Osama bin Laden requires two things: captivating detail about how the mission was carried out and answers to difficult questions that linger over the affair.

The Economist

The book brims with captivating detail: intricately carved Japanese netsuke, used to suspend small belongings from the belt of a kimono, were also made to feel pleasant in the hand; Elizabethan mini-portraits worn as jewelry afforded the "private pleasure" of ownership.

The New Yorker

Mr. Dohnanyi led a vivid and energetic yet polished reading, beautifully illustrating the work's many captivating details, like the lush cello melodies and flute birdcalls of the first movement and the searing opening passages of the second.

The New York Times - Arts

Use captivating details when necessary in your presentation.

Johns Hopkins University

The New York Times praised her music for its "captivating" details and "vivid orchestral palette". She has been commissioned by leading soloists and ensembles, and performed at venues such as Walt Disney Concert Hall, Carnegie Hall, Kennedy Center, and the Tanglewood Music Center, Aspen Music Festival, and the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival.

University of Chicago

Upon closer inspection, the work is embedded with captivating details constructed of eucalyptus bark, human, hair beeswax, gelatin capsules, sheep ribs, chicken wire and strawberries.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a captivating detail", ensure it genuinely enhances the narrative or description, rather than being a superfluous addition. Use it to highlight a specific element that significantly contributes to the overall impact or understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "a captivating detail" too frequently in your writing. Overuse can diminish its impact and make your writing sound repetitive. Instead, vary your descriptions with different adjectives and nouns to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a captivating detail" functions primarily as a descriptive element, modifying a noun to highlight its engaging or intriguing qualities. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

33%

Science

17%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a captivating detail" is a grammatically sound phrase used to highlight an engaging aspect of something, as validated by Ludwig AI. While not exceedingly common, it appears primarily in News & Media and Academic contexts. To diversify your writing, consider alternatives like "an intriguing aspect" or "a fascinating element". When using the phrase, ensure it genuinely enhances the description and avoids overuse to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an intriguing aspect

Replaces 'captivating' with 'intriguing', focusing on the detail's ability to arouse curiosity.

a fascinating element

Uses 'fascinating' instead of 'captivating', emphasizing the detail's ability to hold one's interest.

a compelling feature

Substitutes 'captivating' with 'compelling', highlighting the detail's power to persuade or convince.

a remarkable aspect

Employs 'remarkable' to suggest the detail is worthy of attention due to its unusual or outstanding quality.

a striking particularity

Replaces 'captivating' with 'striking' and 'detail' with 'particularity', drawing attention to a noticeable and distinct element.

an absorbing characteristic

Uses 'absorbing' to convey that the detail has the power to fully engage one's attention.

an enthralling component

Substitutes 'captivating' with 'enthralling', indicating the detail is captivating and spellbinding.

an appealing trait

Replaces 'captivating' with 'appealing', suggesting the detail is attractive or pleasing.

a noteworthy attribute

Employs 'noteworthy' to indicate the detail is deserving of attention or remembrance.

an interesting nuance

Substitutes 'captivating' with 'interesting' and 'detail' with 'nuance', focusing on a subtle but important aspect.

FAQs

How can I effectively incorporate "a captivating detail" into my writing?

Use "a captivating detail" to emphasize specific elements that significantly enhance the reader's understanding or engagement. Ensure the detail is relevant and contributes meaningfully to the overall context.

What are some alternatives to using "a captivating detail" in a sentence?

You can use alternatives like "an intriguing aspect", "a fascinating element", or "a compelling feature" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a captivating detail" in formal writing?

Yes, "a captivating detail" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing elements that are particularly noteworthy or significant. However, ensure its use aligns with the overall tone and style of the piece.

What makes a detail truly "captivating"?

A detail is "captivating" when it has the power to immediately grab and hold the audience's attention. Often, it is something unexpected, richly descriptive, or particularly revealing.