bare outline

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bare outline" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a basic or minimal representation of something, often referring to a rough sketch or summary of ideas. Example: "The report provided a bare outline of the project's objectives, leaving out many important details."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

And Bare Outline just didn't make the cut.

The New York Times - Sports

The bare outline of Piranesi's story is well known.

The New York Times

We only know the bare outline of her subsequent life.

The Guardian

Religious records and the texts of some laws and treaties provided a bare outline of major events.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He was followed by Deputy Warlock, Bare Outline and Settlement, three long-shots, and by Mighty and Hal's Hope.

The New York Times - Sports

As this bare outline should suggest, The Romanovs represents a huge and ambitious endeavour, and the finished volume reflects an enormous amount of work.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Keegan-Dolan has junked all but the bare outlines of the libretto.

The Guardian

Necessarily this means that the book ignores all but the bare outlines of Drucker's long life.

The New York Times - Books

The office was nearly bare, outlines of pictures on walls left unpainted since the departure of the previous occupant.

The New York Times

On the same street, a plaque describing the bare outlines of Solzhenitsyn's achievement was placed next to a McDonald's.

The New Yorker

Mr. Romney's economic program – or rather the bare outlines on which he is running – would not even come close to solving the deficit problem.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bare outline" when you want to emphasize the lack of detail or the preliminary nature of something, such as a plan, story, or idea.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "bare outline" as a finished or comprehensive product. Clearly indicate that it requires further development or elaboration to prevent misunderstandings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bare outline" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI states that this phrase is usable in written English. It describes a basic or minimal representation of something.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

16%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Science

8%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bare outline" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that describes something presented in a basic or minimal form. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It is frequently used in news and media, academic, and encyclopedia contexts to convey a lack of detail or a preliminary stage of development. Related phrases include "basic framework" and "rough sketch". When using "bare outline", ensure clarity and indicate that further details are required. While the term is versatile, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

basic framework

Emphasizes the foundational structure without details.

rough sketch

Focuses on the preliminary and unrefined nature of the representation.

simplified version

Highlights the reduced complexity compared to the original.

abridged form

Implies a shortened or condensed presentation.

essential elements

Highlights only the most important components.

core structure

Focuses on the underlying arrangement and interconnections.

skeleton structure

Implies a basic framework lacking details.

brief summary

Conveys a concise overview without extensive elaboration.

general overview

Describes a broad and non-specific perspective.

initial draft

Highlights that it's a starting point that will be expanded upon.

FAQs

How can I use "bare outline" in a sentence?

You can use "bare outline" to describe a plan, idea, or story that is only partially developed. For example: "The presentation offered only a "bare outline" of the proposed changes."

What can I say instead of "bare outline"?

Alternatives to "bare outline" include "basic framework", "rough sketch", or "simplified version", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "bare outline" in formal writing?

Yes, "bare outline" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when describing a preliminary plan or concept. However, ensure the context clearly indicates that further detail is needed.

What's the difference between "bare outline" and "detailed plan"?

A "bare outline" presents only the essential elements without elaboration, whereas a "detailed plan" includes comprehensive information and specific steps. The former is a starting point, while the latter is a more complete representation.