be thorough

USAGE SUMMARY

"be thorough" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to encourage someone to perform a task or investigation carefully and comprehensively. For example, "Be thorough when preparing the report; make sure to include all relevant information."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Always be thorough.

The New York Times

A beekeeper should be thorough.

The New York Times

Be prompt, be thorough.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"We're going to be thorough".

The New York Times

"Please be thorough but also concise.

The New York Times

It must also be thorough and transparent.

The New York Times

It needs to be thorough and impartial.

The New York Times

Be thorough but be concise.

Stanford University

But take a look to be thorough".

The Guardian

But everybody wants to be thorough, too.

The New York Times - Sports

In my opinion they should be thorough.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be thorough", follow it with a specific area or task to clarify what requires thoroughness. For example, "Be thorough in your research" or "Be thorough when reviewing the documents".

Common error

Avoid using "be thorough" without specifying the context. Saying "just be thorough" can be vague and unhelpful. Always provide specific instructions or areas where thoroughness is needed to ensure clarity and effective action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be thorough" functions primarily as an imperative, urging or instructing someone to perform a task with completeness and attention to detail. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, showing its use in providing instructions, such as being thorough during investigations or preparing reports.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Wiki

21%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Science

9%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be thorough" is a common and grammatically correct imperative used to instruct or encourage someone to perform a task meticulously. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various contexts, particularly in news, wiki articles, and academic settings. When using this phrase, it's best practice to specify the area or task that requires thoroughness to avoid vagueness. Alternative phrases like "be meticulous" or "be diligent" can be used to convey similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Be meticulous

Emphasizes precision and attention to detail, differing slightly in focusing on accuracy.

Be exhaustive

Focuses on covering all possible aspects or details, suggesting a comprehensive approach.

Be diligent

Highlights the consistent effort and care required, shifting the emphasis to the work ethic involved.

Be comprehensive

Stresses the inclusion of all necessary elements, changing the focus to the scope of the task.

Be scrupulous

Implies a strong moral or ethical component in being thorough, adding a layer of conscientiousness.

Leave no stone unturned

An idiomatic expression meaning to explore every possibility, differing in its figurative language.

Cover all bases

An idiomatic phrase suggesting preparation for all contingencies, differing in its metaphorical context.

Go the whole nine yards

An idiomatic expression meaning to do something as thoroughly as possible, differing in its colloquial tone.

Ensure completeness

Highlights the act of guaranteeing that everything is included and finished, rather than the process itself.

Pay attention to every detail

Focuses on the act of noticing and considering each small element, emphasizing mindfulness.

FAQs

How can I use "be thorough" in a sentence?

You can use "be thorough" as an imperative to instruct someone to perform a task completely and carefully. For example, "Be thorough when inspecting the equipment" or "Be thorough in your investigation".

What does it mean to "be thorough"?

To "be thorough" means to perform a task or investigation completely, carefully, and with great attention to detail. It involves not overlooking anything and ensuring that all aspects are fully addressed.

What are some alternatives to saying "be thorough"?

Alternatives to "be thorough" include phrases like "be meticulous", "be exhaustive", or "be diligent", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to "be thorough"?

While being thorough is generally beneficial, there are situations where it may not be the most efficient approach. Sometimes a quick overview is sufficient, but in situations where accuracy and completeness are crucial, it's essential to "be thorough".