a comprehensive breakdown

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a comprehensive breakdown" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to describe a detailed and thorough analysis or explanation of a subject or topic. Example: "The report includes a comprehensive breakdown of the project's costs and timelines, ensuring that all stakeholders are informed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

The result is a comprehensive breakdown in public policy.

The New Yorker

My father had died three years before, and I'd responded with great resourcefulness, by having a comprehensive breakdown, ending a nurturing relationship and moving back home.

The Guardian - Opinion

Jeffrey Toobin, in his article about the Floreses, a mixed-status family, describes a "comprehensive breakdown in public policy" with regard to immigration reform ("American Limbo," July 27th).

The New Yorker

A comprehensive breakdown of the sales, released today, shows that other sports such as swimming, athletics, hockey, judo, netball, shooting, table tennis, triathlon and wrestling are also booked up.

Independent

In attempting to convince voters that society has suffered a comprehensive breakdown (and pandering to his own party's right wing), Mr Cameron has been guided towards social policies that are designed to heal the entire country, rather than help the relatively few who need it.

The Economist

"RMT supports the principle of a properly worked out night Tube service introduced through agreement with the unions but the abject failure to work through the detail has led to a comprehensive breakdown in the negotiations and has forced us to name a programme of further industrial action.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

It may not be the most original addition to the mix — rivals Lemon and OneReceipt have taken a similar approach — but having a fairly comprehensive breakdown of your purchasing habits at your fingertips isn't the sort of thing most users would turn their noses up at.

TechCrunch

It may be helpful to talk not only with your partner or spouse and a trusted adviser but also to do a more comprehensive breakdown of social, personal and wealth goals in retirement.

The New York Times

BSA offers a very comprehensive breakdown of Careers in Botany and answers fundamental questions in their Frequently Asked Questions about a Career in Botany.

Science Magazine

Then you probably had to deal with syncing headaches, incorrect unread email counts, and plenty of other miscellaneous unpleasantness (Joe Kissell has a pretty comprehensive breakdown of the big issues on his site if you're feeling morbidly curious).

TechCrunch

It concluded that the one offering the best value was Nationwide's FlexPlus, which costs £120 a year and comes with worldwide family travel insurance including winter sports, comprehensive breakdown cover, and 3% interest on credit balances of up to £2,500.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a comprehensive breakdown", ensure that the subsequent information provides a thorough and detailed analysis, fulfilling the expectation set by the phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "a comprehensive breakdown" if the analysis is superficial or omits key details. Use a more appropriate phrase like "a summary" or "an overview" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a comprehensive breakdown" functions as a noun phrase that introduces or refers to a detailed and thorough analysis or explanation of a topic. This is evidenced by examples in Ludwig where it precedes an explanation or follows a statement about an analysis.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

26%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a comprehensive breakdown" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase that introduces a thorough and detailed analysis or explanation. According to Ludwig, it is found across various contexts, from news and media to science and business, with a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure that the subsequent information lives up to the expectation of being detailed and exhaustive. Alternatives like "a detailed analysis" or "an in-depth examination" can be used depending on the specific context and desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a detailed analysis

Focuses on the depth of the analysis rather than its all-encompassing nature.

an in-depth examination

Emphasizes the thoroughness of the investigation.

a thorough investigation

Highlights the completeness of the inquiry.

a complete analysis

Stresses the entirety of the analysis.

a full account

Suggests a complete and detailed report.

a systematic review

Highlights the structured and methodical nature of the review.

an exhaustive study

Emphasizes the extensive and thorough nature of the study.

a holistic assessment

Focuses on considering all aspects of the subject.

a broad overview

Provides a general summary covering many points, but with reduced depth.

a strategic analysis

Focuses on the key strategic elements of an analysis.

FAQs

How can I use "a comprehensive breakdown" in a sentence?

You can use "a comprehensive breakdown" to introduce a detailed analysis or explanation of a topic. For example, "The report provides "a comprehensive breakdown" of the company's financial performance."

What are some alternatives to "a comprehensive breakdown"?

Some alternatives to "a comprehensive breakdown" include "a detailed analysis", "an in-depth examination", or "a thorough investigation". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "a comprehensive breakdown" formal or informal?

"A comprehensive breakdown" is suitable for both formal and neutral contexts, such as reports, articles, and presentations. However, in extremely informal settings, simpler phrases might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "a comprehensive breakdown" and "a summary"?

"A comprehensive breakdown" implies a thorough and detailed analysis, while "a summary" provides a condensed overview of the main points. Use "a comprehensive breakdown" when you need to present detailed information, and "a summary" when brevity is important.