boilerplate text

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "boilerplate text" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to standardized text that can be reused in various documents or contexts without significant changes. Example: "The contract included boilerplate text that outlined the terms and conditions applicable to all parties involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

It also lets you set up voice macros that type out boilerplate text.

The New York Times - Tech

I encourage you to read the suggested boilerplate text, which speaks of Mann "conspiring with his left-wing cronies to intimidate and silence those who would dare to question his intentions".

The New York Times

These days when I send an e-mail message to a company, almost always I receive some bit of boilerplate text that is tangentially related to my question at best.

The New York Times

A couple of years ago, I tried to ease their burden by teaching them to write thank-you notes the way Daddy does: on a computer, with lots of boilerplate text that can be cut and pasted.

The New Yorker

Much like boilerplate text in standard English, boilerplate code is moderate- to large-sized pieces of code that are used again and again in model after model.

Complex Adaptive Systems Modeling

In course syllabi, faculty writers often use boilerplate text from their institution's policies without acknowledging the corporate or individual authorship of those policies.

International Journal for Educational Integrity

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

This second bit of text, this shadow boilerplate, does suggest some of the remarkable last-minute energy that was necessary just to get the installation up.

Los Angeles Times

A sober, informative text may seem a departure for Mr. Del Vecchio, whose boilerplate suspense novels and films prompt comparisons to John Grisham.

The New York Times

The program, with Ray Suarez as host, gives a boilerplate history of Jerusalem from ancient times, drawing straight from the Gospels, the Talmud, the Koran and other texts but adding nothing in terms of modern scholarship or insight.

The New York Times - Arts

No boilerplate.

Harvard Business Review

But enough boilerplate.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "boilerplate text", ensure it aligns with the overall tone and purpose of your document. Customize it as necessary to avoid a generic or impersonal feel.

Common error

Avoid using "boilerplate text" without carefully reviewing and adapting it to the specific context. Failing to do so can lead to inaccuracies or irrelevance, undermining your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "boilerplate text" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies a specific type of text that is standardized and reused. As Ludwig indicates, it refers to sections of text that are repeated without significant change.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "boilerplate text" refers to standardized and reusable text, often found in legal documents, emails, or technical writing. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used. While it's a common practice to use "boilerplate text" to ensure consistency and save time, it's crucial to tailor it to the specific context to avoid inaccuracies or an impersonal tone. As indicated by the provided examples, this term appears frequently in News & Media, Science, and Academia.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

standard text

Replaces "boilerplate" with a more general term for standardized content.

template text

Focuses on the use of the text as a template for repeated use.

form text

Emphasizes the use of the text within a standardized form.

canned text

Highlights the pre-prepared and unoriginal nature of the text.

prewritten text

Focuses on the text being written in advance.

stock text

Similar to "standard text", emphasizing common usage.

routine text

Highlights the repetitive and routine nature of the text.

fixed text

Emphasizes the unchanging nature of the text.

generic text

Stresses the lack of specificity in the text.

typical text

Highlights the commonness of the text.

FAQs

How to use "boilerplate text" in a sentence?

You can use "boilerplate text" to refer to standardized sections of text that are reused across multiple documents, such as: "The contract included "boilerplate text" outlining the standard terms and conditions."

What can I say instead of "boilerplate text"?

You can use alternatives like "standard text", "template text", or "prewritten text" depending on the context.

What is the purpose of using "boilerplate text"?

The purpose of using "boilerplate text" is to save time and ensure consistency across multiple documents by reusing standardized language for common clauses, disclaimers, or other routine information.

Is it always appropriate to use "boilerplate text"?

While "boilerplate text" can be efficient, it's not always appropriate. You should avoid using "boilerplate text" if it doesn't accurately reflect the specific situation or if it makes the document feel impersonal. Always customize as needed.