a degree of refinement

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a degree of refinement" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the level of sophistication, elegance, or improvement in a particular context, such as art, design, or behavior. Example: "The new version of the software includes a degree of refinement that enhances user experience significantly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Fine stationery, marbled binding papers and handmade wrapping papers reflect a degree of refinement in those who employ them while serving some basic everyday functions.

The New York Times - Travel

This extension involves the time integration of the discrete system on a hierarchy of levels, each of which represents a degree of refinement, together with synchronization steps to ensure consistency across levels.

Journal of Computational Physics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Asymmetry exhibits a degree of polish and refinement that was largely absent on Signals, their debut from last year, but the Cambridge quartet's knack for imbuing their fairly perfunctory alternative-rock bluster with a sense of tender honesty ensures that these songs sidestep the enervating wetness that so often mars music of such an unashamedly radio-friendly nature.

The Guardian - Music

These deviations have allowed us to discriminate between the various mechanistic models and have facilitated a degree of model refinement.

Chemical Engineering Science

The story is set during the Heian period (A.D. 794-1185), a time when Japanese court life, based in the Heian capital, Kyoto, had achieved a degree of aristocratic refinement bordering on the effete.

The New York Times

The distribution of exposure error across ZIP codes was mostly negative (indicating that the exposure metric with a greater degree of refinement had a lower magnitude), although exposure errors were positive for a small number of ZIP codes.

Environmental Health Perspectives

However, it is also suggested that a certain degree of refinement can be achieved by utilizing a uniform distribution of large Si3N4 particles together with a slow cooling procedure.

Acta Materialia

You miss a certain degree of refinement, too.

The New York Times - Tech

By the early 1970s these had attained a high degree of refinement in accuracy, range, and versatility.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Compared with other deposition techniques the microstructure of the laser coatings showed a high degree of refinement and chemical homogeneity.

Surface and Coatings Technology

"He brought our understanding of Puritan thought, his first great subject, to a new degree of refinement, and then traced the development of slavery in the upper South in ways that had not been done before".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a degree of refinement", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being refined or improved. For example, specify "a degree of refinement in the design".

Common error

While grammatically sound, "a degree of refinement" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "more polished" or "slightly better" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a degree of refinement" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as an object or complement within a sentence. It indicates a specific level or extent of improvement or sophistication. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

45%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a degree of refinement" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to express a level of improvement or sophistication. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is most commonly found in scientific, news and media, and academic contexts, suggesting a formal to neutral register. While "a degree of refinement" is useful for conveying precision and attention to detail, it should be used thoughtfully, considering the formality of the context and the availability of simpler alternatives for more casual conversations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a level of sophistication

Replaces "degree" with "level" to emphasize the extent of sophistication.

a measure of elegance

Substitutes "refinement" with "elegance" to highlight aesthetic improvement.

a certain level of polish

Uses "polish" instead of "refinement" to suggest a surface-level improvement.

a touch of class

Emphasizes the addition of sophistication or elegance.

a higher standard

Shifts the focus to achieving an elevated level of quality.

an increased precision

Highlights the improved accuracy and exactness.

a more polished approach

Focuses on the method or strategy becoming more refined.

an enhanced quality

Highlights the improvement in the overall quality.

a superior grade

Indicates a higher level of excellence or quality.

a fine distinction

Focuses on subtle but significant improvements or differences.

FAQs

How can I use "a degree of refinement" in a sentence?

You can use "a degree of refinement" to describe improvements in quality, sophistication, or precision. For instance: "The latest model shows "a degree of refinement" in its user interface."

What are some alternatives to "a degree of refinement"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a level of sophistication", "a measure of elegance", or "a certain level of polish".

Is it appropriate to use "a degree of refinement" in formal writing?

Yes, "a degree of refinement" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing improvements in design, quality, or processes. It conveys a sense of precision and attention to detail.

What's the difference between ""a degree of refinement"" and "a major overhaul"?

"A degree of refinement" suggests incremental improvements, while "a major overhaul" implies significant, transformative changes. The former is about fine-tuning; the latter is about rebuilding.