a dilution of text

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a dilution of text" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where the original content or meaning of a text has been weakened or made less effective, often due to excessive simplification or alteration. Example: "The final report was criticized for being a dilution of text, lacking the depth and detail of the original research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Others deplore its cartoons as pandering to young readers, a dilution of text and language.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"You could call it a dilution of overall research funding".

The Guardian

But numerous competing tours led to a dilution of fan interest and sponsorship money.

The New York Times - Sports

I think inevitably one will see a dilution of the codes.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The decision to place new "supporters" into the trade union section of the electoral college has been spun as a dilution of the unions power, when in fact it is a dilution of the power of the supporters themselves.

The Guardian - Opinion

They said in papers filed with the Justice Department that the plan represented a dilution of minority influence.

The New York Times

I'm tempted to take the purists view that it's, you know, a dilution of the pure game.

The New York Times

The main change is a dilution of scepticism: about fate and selfishness, adultery and responsibility – and watersports.

The Guardian - Film

Yet when England do rest and rotate, there are others who point to a dilution of the international game.

The Guardian - Sport

Other leaders rejected widening the consultative process, fearing a dilution of the personal contacts between the leaders.

The New York Times

There wasn't a dilution of brand.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a dilution of text", consider whether a more specific term might better convey the intended meaning. For example, specify whether the dilution is due to simplification, omission, or alteration.

Common error

Avoid using "a dilution of text" in highly formal or scientific writing without carefully considering if a more precise term exists. Often, terms like 'oversimplification' or 'reduction in detail' offer greater clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a dilution of text" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes the state or result of something having been weakened in content or impact. Ludwig provides examples demonstrating its use in describing critiques of writing.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a dilution of text" is a noun phrase used to describe a weakening or reduction in the quality, depth, or impact of written content. While grammatically correct, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, its relative infrequency suggests careful consideration of context and potential alternatives. It is often used in news and media, as well as scientific contexts, to express criticism or concern about the degradation of a text's original form. For more formal contexts, phrases like “oversimplification” or “reduction in detail” might provide greater precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a weakening of the text

Focuses on the reduction of strength or impact of the text itself.

a watering down of the text

Emphasizes the reduction of potency or impact, similar to adding water.

a simplification of the text

Highlights the process of making the text less complex.

a reduction in the text's depth

Specifically addresses the loss of complexity and detail.

a decrease in textual substance

Emphasizes the loss of significant content or meaning.

a degradation of the text

Implies a decline in quality or integrity.

an attenuation of the text's message

Focuses on the lessening of the impact or clarity of the message.

an undermining of the text's force

Highlights the reduction in power or effectiveness.

a compromising of the text's integrity

Suggests a loss of purity or soundness.

a shallowing of the text

Indicates a reduction in depth and intellectual value.

FAQs

What does "a dilution of text" mean?

The phrase "a dilution of text" refers to a situation where the original content or meaning of a text has been weakened or made less effective, often due to excessive simplification or alteration.

How can I use "a dilution of text" in a sentence?

You might say, "The editor felt the revised manuscript represented "a dilution of text" compared to the original, losing some of its nuance and impact."

What are some alternatives to "a dilution of text"?

You can use alternatives like "a weakening of the text", "a simplification of the text", or "a reduction in the text's depth" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a dilution of text"?

It is appropriate when you want to convey that a text has lost its original strength, clarity, or depth due to changes or modifications. However, consider whether more precise terms like "oversimplification" or "reduction in detail" might be more appropriate.