an outline

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an outline" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a structured summary or plan that organizes main ideas and supporting details. Example: "Before starting my research paper, I created an outline to organize my thoughts and ensure a logical flow of information."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's more like an outline.

The New Yorker

I never have an outline".

The New York Times - Books

What Is an Outline?

Science Magazine

That's just an outline.

Forbes

Here is an outline of what emerges.

SEP

Why Should You Make an Outline?

Science Magazine

How Should You Make an Outline?

Science Magazine

But this only gives an outline.

BBC

7. Write an outline.

Huffington Post

Was it an outline?

Huffington Post

I don't prepare an outline.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When starting a complex project, always begin by creating "an outline" to ensure a structured and logical progression.

Common error

Avoid making "an outline" too granular, as it can stifle creativity and make the writing process feel overly rigid. Keep it flexible enough to allow for spontaneous ideas.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "an outline" is as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates that it is a common and acceptable phrase. Examples show it referring to a structured plan or summary.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

33%

News & Media

24%

Science & Research

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Science

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an outline" functions as a noun phrase denoting a structured plan or summary, frequently used across diverse contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted. It serves to provide organization and structure, fitting comfortably in both formal and informal settings. When using "an outline", avoid making it overly detailed to prevent stifling creativity, and consider related phrases like "a summary" or "a plan" for alternative expressions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a summary

Focuses on the condensed version of content, differing from a structured plan.

a plan

Emphasizes the intention to achieve something, lacking the structural aspect of outlining.

a framework

Highlights the supporting structure rather than the contents themselves.

a blueprint

Conveys detailed specifications, unlike the more general nature of an outline.

a rough draft

Implies a preliminary version, distinct from the organized structure of an outline.

a sketch

Highlights a basic representation, emphasizing incompleteness relative to the structured nature of an outline.

a scheme

Suggests a strategic or secret plan, unlike the organizational aspect of an outline.

a rundown

Focuses on a quick explanation or summary, not necessarily structured like an outline.

a layout

Relates more to spatial arrangement rather than the organization of ideas or content.

a synopsis

Concentrates on condensing the main points, contrasting with the broader structural organization of an outline.

FAQs

How to use "an outline" in a sentence?

You can use "an outline" to refer to a structured plan or summary, as in "I created "an outline" before writing my essay" or "The presentation followed "an outline" to ensure clarity".

What can I say instead of "an outline"?

You can use alternatives like "a summary", "a plan", or "a framework" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "an outline" or "a outline"?

"An outline" is correct. The article "an" is used before words that begin with a vowel sound.

What's the difference between "an outline" and "a draft"?

"An outline" is a structured plan, while "a draft" is a preliminary version of a written piece. An outline organizes thoughts, a draft is the initial writing.