a written description of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a written description of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a detailed account or explanation that is documented in writing. Example: "The report includes a written description of the project's objectives and outcomes."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

This information includes written general information on patellofemoral pain syndrome and a written description of the present study.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

Parody of a written description of a rebellion.

The New Yorker

The New Yorker, October 24, 1977 P. 42 Parody of a written description of a rebellion.

The New Yorker

By Donald Barthelme The New Yorker, October 24, 1977 P. 42 Parody of a written description of a rebellion.

The New Yorker

So he enclosed the photographs in black boxes and attached a written description of the hidden images.

The New York Times - Arts

In a ground-floor window, a written description of ibogaine hangs next to a surreal triptych that portrays a man ingesting ibogaine and then giving up the needle.

The New York Times

In a written description of the tape, Mr. Cox said that the Lennons had allowed him to videotape them for a proposed documentary.

The New York Times

Instruct students to work on their own to translate, in their journals, the graphic representation on their slip of paper into a written description of the information.

The New York Times

Suh described an experiment he did in which he gave students, both at Yonsei University and at the University of California at Irvine (where he once taught) a photograph and a written description of the same person.

The New Yorker

A Florida time-share developer, David Siegel, is taking the unusual step of suing not over the content of a film about his family but over a written description of it.

The New York Times

Subsequent refinements have resulted in the development of an informed-consent process whereby a written description of the study aims, the requirements imposed by participation, the side effects of the intervention, and the participant's rights is provided, along with ample time for discussion and for questions from potential participants.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When clarity is paramount, supplement "a written description of" with visuals or diagrams for enhanced understanding.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a written description of" is always sufficient. Complex subjects often require visual aids to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a written description of" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it introduces a detailed explanation documented in writing. Examples show its versatility in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

48%

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a written description of" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to refer to a detailed account or explanation documented in writing. As Ludwig AI highlights, it is suitable for various contexts including scientific, news, and encyclopedic content. The phrase functions as a noun phrase and serves to clarify and inform, making it a versatile tool for effective communication. While frequently used, remember to supplement it with visuals when appropriate to prevent misinterpretations. Some alternatives are a documented account of and a textual explanation of.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a documented account of

Replaces "written description" with a more formal term, focusing on the fact that it's recorded.

a textual representation of

Emphasizes the format as text, suitable when contrasting with other formats.

a formal record of

Highlights the official nature of the description.

a comprehensive report on

Suggests a more thorough and detailed account.

a detailed summary of

Focuses on providing a brief yet thorough overview in written form.

a full account of

Implies a complete and exhaustive description.

a narrative depiction of

Highlights the descriptive and storytelling aspect.

an explicit exposition of

Replaces "description" with "exposition", indicating a clear and detailed explanation.

a clear articulation of

Focuses on the clarity and precision of the description.

a methodical explanation of

Highlights the systematic and orderly nature of the description.

FAQs

How can I use "a written description of" in a sentence?

You can use "a written description of" to introduce a formal account or explanation, such as "The manual includes "a written description of" the machine's functions".

What are some alternatives to "a written description of"?

You can use alternatives like "a documented account of", "a textual explanation of", or "a formal record of" depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to provide "a written description of" something?

While not always necessary, providing "a written description of" a process, object, or concept ensures clarity and provides a reference point for future use.

When is it best to use "a written description of" over a visual representation?

Use "a written description of" when detailing abstract concepts, legal terms, or providing step-by-step instructions where precise language is crucial. Visuals are better for illustrating concrete objects or spatial relationships.