at a gross level

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at a gross level" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to emphasize that the speaker or writer is introducing a basic concept without getting into the details. For example: "At a gross level, this legislation would increase taxes for the wealthy."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

When you have data sets this big — in the hundreds of millions of examples — how can you sort it and observe it even at a gross level so that people can find coarse patterns and ideas worth pursuing?

TechCrunch

Then obviously the successful fundraising, bringing in £22m at a gross level of funds which will see them through at least two seasons, probably all the way through to the SPL.

BBC

AR where the experimental question is subject to study solely by reductionism, that is, by examining simple systems at a gross level (for example, discovering the germ theory of disease, that the heart circulates blood, and that the immune system reacts to foreign entities), may translate [57].

Annals of Intensive Care

To estimate population stratification at a gross level, we used the program STRUCTURE [11].

Plosone

However, mutations in known ESCRT complex genes do not appear to affect GLR-1 trafficking at a gross level.

Plosone

Both sides of the brain appeared to be of appropriate size with no unusual features noted at a gross level or by cresyl violet staining.

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

This unexpected finding suggests that at 65d, there is a gross level of phonological variability that can only be detected in SAP by disregarding motif structure.

Plosone

Nevertheless, useful data at a more gross level have been obtained from certain electrode designs (e.g. Shibuki & Kimura, 1997) but many of those that have been used suffer from suspect specificity and inadequate sensitivity.

European Journal of Neuroscience

At a gross anatomical level, the data driven approach revealed five broad clusters that showed distinct brain-wide functional connectivity.

NeuroImage

At a gross morphological level, this ability to form distinct polymorphic fibril structures of Aβ have been known for some time [5], [6].

Plosone

At a gross morphological level there appears to be a remarkable congruence between the filamentous Fe oxyhydroxides produced by strains PV-1 and JV-1 and the ferrihydrite-rich stalks produced by Gallionella ferruginea [24].

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at a gross level" when introducing a simplified explanation or overview before delving into more complex details. This helps to set the stage and provide context for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "at a gross level" when a detailed and nuanced analysis is required. This phrase indicates a simplified or superficial understanding, which may be inappropriate in contexts demanding rigor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at a gross level" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the extent or depth of analysis. As Ludwig AI confirms, it sets the stage for a simplified explanation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

65%

News & Media

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at a gross level" serves as a signal to the reader or listener that a simplified or general explanation is about to be presented. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and commonly used across various domains, particularly in science and news media. When using this phrase, ensure that the context allows for a superficial analysis, as it implies a lack of depth. Related phrases include "in general terms" and "broadly speaking". Be mindful not to use it when a detailed and nuanced analysis is required. By using "at a gross level" appropriately, you can effectively set the stage for further, more detailed explanations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a basic level

Focuses on the fundamental aspect rather than a superficial view.

in general terms

Emphasizes a broad overview without specific details.

on a superficial level

Highlights the lack of depth in the analysis.

at a high level

Suggests a management or overview perspective.

broadly speaking

Introduces a generalization about a topic.

in broad strokes

Paints a picture without intricate details.

as a general rule

Indicates a common or typical occurrence.

at first glance

Implies an initial impression that may not be entirely accurate.

in a nutshell

Offers a concise summary or overview.

in essence

Captures the core or fundamental nature of something.

FAQs

How can I use "at a gross level" in a sentence?

You can use "at a gross level" to introduce a basic or simplified explanation. For example, "At a gross level, the economy is driven by supply and demand."

What is an alternative to saying "at a gross level"?

Alternatives include phrases like "in general terms", "broadly speaking", or "at a basic level", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "at a gross level"?

It's appropriate to use "at a gross level" when you want to provide a general overview or simplified explanation of a topic without going into detailed specifics. It's useful for setting the stage before a more in-depth analysis.

What does "at a gross level" imply about the depth of analysis?

Using "at a gross level" implies that the analysis is not exhaustive or detailed. It suggests a superficial or simplified understanding of the subject matter.