a painstaking method

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a painstaking method" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a method that requires a lot of careful effort and attention to detail. Example: "The researchers employed a painstaking method to ensure the accuracy of their findings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Because no one is sure what kind of rock will be found inside the mountain, the tunnel will be built using a painstaking method of blasting and digging, rather than the tunnel-boring machines that have revolutionized tunnel construction in recent years.

The New York Times

The study marks the first use of a painstaking method that should provide a reliable planetary "scale".

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"I use a very painstaking method, working very closely from photos," he says.

The Guardian - Tech

The stop-frame technique can be more costly and time-consuming than computer-generated and conventionally drawn animation, but some producers say they prefer this painstaking method because it offers a realism and aesthetic authenticity that computers and drawings lack.

The New York Times

The fully developed conte crayon-and-charcoal drawings for "Evening Wind" and "East Side Interior," shown along with the etchings themselves, reveal part of Hopper's painstaking method of preparing for a print.

The New York Times - Arts

The kindergartenish, graffiti-like doodles and angular lines that meander about most of his paintings are made on a computer, but they are enlarged and transferred to canvas through a painstaking stenciling method involving the application of tapes of different widths.

The New York Times

For Mr. Anderson, the idea of a "Fantastic Mr.Fox" movie has always been inseparable fromstop motion, the painstaking method that requiresminiature figures to be moved in incrementsand photographed one frame at a time.

The New York Times

Here's the painstaking method they used to create it.

The Guardian - Tech

His painstaking method of coaching is unusual, according to the soprano Gail Robinson, the associate director of the Met's Young Artist Development Program, who worked with him when she joined the company, in the 1960's.

The New York Times - Arts

So rather than use new technologies for the sake of it, photographer Jessica Eaton instead prefers to use the more painstaking method of producing all her photographic illusions in-camera and the results are stunnin-camera and

Vice

A current installation, "From Idea to Illustration," explains Rockwell's painstaking methods, which involved a careful five-stage progression from rough sketch to finished painting.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process, use "a painstaking method" to emphasize the dedication and attention to detail required. This highlights the value of thoroughness.

Common error

Avoid using "a painstaking method" when a simpler approach would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex or even pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a painstaking method" functions as a noun phrase, where "painstaking" is an adjective modifying "method". Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is correct and usable in written English, acting as a descriptor for processes requiring significant effort and attention to detail.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science & Research

50%

Academia

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a painstaking method" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes a process requiring significant effort and attention to detail. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. Although relatively rare in occurrence, it is found in reputable sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian, mainly within news and media, and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, consider its formality and ensure it accurately reflects the level of detail and effort involved in the described method. Alternatives like "a meticulous approach" or "a thorough technique" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a meticulous approach

Focuses on the detailed and precise nature of the method.

a thorough technique

Highlights the completeness and comprehensiveness of the method.

a careful procedure

Emphasizes the cautious and attentive manner of the method.

a detailed process

Stresses the level of detail involved in the method.

an elaborate system

Suggests a complex and well-developed nature of the method.

a rigorous strategy

Highlights the strict and demanding nature of the method.

a precise methodology

Focuses on the accuracy and exactness of the method.

a conscientious scheme

Emphasizes the diligence and care in the method.

a punctilious tactic

Highlights the strict attention to detail and formality in the method.

a laborious process

Emphasizes the effort and time required by the method.

FAQs

How can I use "a painstaking method" in a sentence?

You can use "a painstaking method" to describe any process that requires great care, attention to detail, and effort. For example: "The artist used "a painstaking method" to restore the painting to its original condition."

What are some alternatives to "a painstaking method"?

Alternatives include "a meticulous approach", "a thorough technique", or "a careful procedure" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a painstaking method" or "a careful method"?

"A painstaking method" implies a greater degree of effort, detail, and thoroughness than "a careful method". Use "a painstaking method" when you want to emphasize the dedication and labor involved.

What makes "a painstaking method" different from "a rigorous method"?

"A painstaking method" emphasizes the care and attention to detail, while "a rigorous method" highlights strict adherence to rules and procedures. The choice depends on whether you want to stress thoroughness or precision.