an overview

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an overview" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to provide a summary or general description of a topic or subject. Example: "In this report, we will provide an overview of the current market trends and their implications for our business strategy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Below, an overview.

The New York Times - Travel

Here is an overview.

The Guardian

Precision oncology: an overview.

Nature

Start with an overview.

The New York Times - Travel

The commission needs an overview.

The Guardian

I don't have an overview.

The Guardian

Global Migration Trends: an overview.

Nature

Li P. Box-Cox transformations: an overview, 2005.

Nature

At History Today, an overview of Michael Oakeshott.

The New York Times

"You have to take an overview.

The Guardian

Clinical psychologist Lucy Maddox provides an overview.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an overview", ensure it introduces a concise and comprehensive summary of the main points, suitable for the intended audience.

Common error

Avoid making the "overview" too vague or superficial. Ensure it provides sufficient context and key details to inform the reader effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an overview" functions as a noun phrase that introduces a summary or general description of a topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely used. Examples in Ludwig show it introducing summaries in various contexts, from travel guides to scientific papers.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

46%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "an overview" is a grammatically correct and very common noun phrase used to introduce a summary or general description of a topic. As highlighted by Ludwig, its usage is broad, spanning from news and media to scientific and academic contexts. While it serves to provide a concise and comprehensive introduction, alternative phrases such as "a summary", "a general outline", and "a synopsis" can be used depending on the specific context and level of formality required. When using "an overview", ensure it offers sufficient context without being too vague, thus effectively informing the reader.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a summary

Focuses on providing a condensed version of the main points, omitting the details.

a general outline

Emphasizes the structural aspects of the topic.

a synopsis

Implies a brief overview often used in literature or film.

a bird's-eye view

Suggests a high-level perspective, from a distance.

a rundown

Offers an informal and quick summary of events or information.

a sketch

Presents a preliminary, basic representation.

a briefing

Denotes a concise report typically used in professional settings.

a conspectus

Suggests a comprehensive survey or summary.

a survey

Implies a broad examination of a topic.

an abstract

A concise summary, particularly in academic contexts.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "an overview" in a sentence?

Use "an overview" to introduce a summary or general description. For example, "This report provides "an overview" of the current market trends."

What phrases can I use instead of "an overview"?

You can use alternatives like "a summary", "a general outline", or "a synopsis" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "an overview" and "an in-depth analysis"?

"An overview" provides a general summary, while "an in-depth analysis" delves into specific details and intricacies of the topic.

In what contexts is "an overview" most appropriate?

"An overview" is appropriate in various contexts, including reports, presentations, and introductions, where a general understanding of a topic is needed before diving into details. It sets the stage for more detailed discussions.