a nice detail

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a nice detail" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a small but pleasing or interesting aspect of something, often in the context of art, design, or writing. Example: "The painting has a nice detail in the way the light reflects off the water."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

The cute hood is a nice detail and perfect for the British autumn.

Independent

"That's what I get from the archives, more than 'Oh, this is a nice detail,' " he told me.

The New Yorker

A nice detail: move the crowd farther back from the field, and the effect, quite robust otherwise, diminishes.

The New Yorker

Your publicist mentioned the bathtub as a nice detail for Valentine's Day. A. Do you know the old-school claw-foot tubs?

The New York Times

"I think the fact that Anne met and liked Chris is a nice detail," says Schaffner, who served as one of the exhibition's curators.

The New York Times

It's a nice detail that Following On has been published by Bloomsbury's Wisden imprint; this is a title that belongs in that elevated company.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

"The space underneath is a really nice detail," he said.

The New York Times

There was a really nice detail where you would see the underclass and the service industry during scene changes… which was a very clever way of reminding you of "the little people" in among these major issues.

The Guardian - Film

There's barely a beat on how exceptional she is, but instead a few nice details on black-out etiquette for car headlights.

Independent

Each cover contains a few nice details like old price stickers, ruffled edges, and scribbled names of former owners and caveats such as "INSTRUCTIONS MISSING!" Good stuff.

TechCrunch

Next to each entryway is a small shelf, which looks like a nice design detail but is also a handy spot for people to put down mail or packages while they open the door.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing designs or creative works, use "a nice detail" to subtly highlight elements that enhance the overall appeal without being overly effusive.

Common error

Avoid using "a nice detail" excessively in a single piece of writing. Vary your descriptions with more specific adjectives or different phrasing to keep the text engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a nice detail" functions primarily as a subject complement or adjectival phrase modifying a noun. Ludwig AI confirms its use in describing pleasing or interesting aspects of something. Examples show it highlighting specific features considered positive additions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Wiki

20%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a nice detail" is a common and generally acceptable way to point out a pleasing or interesting feature. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While versatile, remember to consider the formality of your writing and choose alternative phrases like "a lovely detail" or "a subtle feature" for more sophisticated tones. Avoid overuse, and focus on providing specific reasons why the detail is considered "nice" to enhance your descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a lovely detail

Replaces "nice" with "lovely", suggesting a more affectionate appreciation of the detail.

a neat detail

Uses "neat" to convey a sense of orderliness or cleverness in the detail.

a charming detail

Emphasizes the detail's ability to please or attract.

a pleasing element

Shifts from "detail" to "element", broadening the scope slightly while maintaining a positive connotation.

a fine point

Highlights the detail's precision and refinement.

a subtle feature

Focuses on the detail being understated yet significant.

an attractive aspect

Highlights the detail's visual appeal and positive impression.

a remarkable touch

Uses "remarkable" to amplify the impressiveness of the detail.

a thoughtful addition

Implies that the detail was carefully considered and adds value.

a pleasant attribute

Indicates that the detail is an agreeable and positive characteristic.

FAQs

How can I use "a nice detail" in a sentence?

You can use "a nice detail" to point out a pleasing or interesting feature of something, like, "The stitching on the collar is "a nice detail" that elevates the jacket's design."

What are some alternatives to saying "a nice detail"?

Alternatives include "a lovely detail", "a pleasing element", or "a subtle feature", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it okay to use "a nice detail" in formal writing?

While "a nice detail" is generally acceptable, consider using more formal alternatives like "a noteworthy feature" or "an elegant touch" in academic or professional contexts to maintain a sophisticated tone.

What makes a detail "nice" in writing?

A "nice" detail is often subtle but adds significantly to the overall quality or appeal of something. It could be an unexpected design choice, a clever turn of phrase, or a small element that enhances the reader's experience.