captivating detail

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "captivating detail" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a specific aspect of something that is particularly interesting or engaging. Example: "The author included captivating detail about the character's background that drew readers into the story."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Gesualdo's influences on the present and recent past are explored in captivating detail in "The Gesualdo Hex," a book by Glenn Watkins.

The New York Times - Arts

It is a beautiful and meticulous artifact, as full of captivating detail as the M.T.A.'s new subway map is devoid of it.

The New Yorker

Buy from Amazon.com, Amazon.co.ukA COMPELLING account of the hunt for Osama bin Laden requires two things: captivating detail about how the mission was carried out and answers to difficult questions that linger over the affair.

The Economist

The book brims with captivating detail: intricately carved Japanese netsuke, used to suspend small belongings from the belt of a kimono, were also made to feel pleasant in the hand; Elizabethan mini-portraits worn as jewelry afforded the "private pleasure" of ownership.

The New Yorker

This is another close-up, a captivating detail that depicts the whole.

The New York Times - Books

After a while, however, it comes to seem a sign of nervousness, an indication that the author fears losing his readers without the gaudy brush stroke or captivating detail.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Upon closer inspection, the work is embedded with captivating details constructed of eucalyptus bark, human, hair beeswax, gelatin capsules, sheep ribs, chicken wire and strawberries.

Vice

Mr. Dohnanyi led a vivid and energetic yet polished reading, beautifully illustrating the work's many captivating details, like the lush cello melodies and flute birdcalls of the first movement and the searing opening passages of the second.

The New York Times - Arts

Strauss's sojourn to Tom Brown Jr.'s Tracker School in the Pine Barrens of New Jersey is captivating, and details like Brown's claim that he can "pick out breast cancer from a track" tend to stay with you.

The New York Times - Books

Beyond the technical wizardry, the Singer flaunts captivating aesthetic details.

BBC

'Halo' MeeThe'Akira' in an IncomplexityGI Shoft Film.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "captivating detail" to describe elements that significantly enhance interest or engagement within a narrative, design, or presentation.

Common error

Avoid using "captivating detail" for trivial or unimportant aspects. Reserve it for elements that genuinely capture attention and contribute meaningfully to the overall experience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "captivating detail" functions as an adjective-noun combination, where "captivating" modifies "detail", emphasizing its ability to attract and hold attention. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Books

16%

Arts

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "captivating detail" is a grammatically correct and effective phrase used to describe particularly interesting or engaging elements. As confirmed by Ludwig, it finds its primary usage in contexts such as news, books, and arts, denoting features that significantly enhance the appeal of the subject. While versatile, it's best reserved for details that genuinely captivate, avoiding overuse in mundane situations. Related phrases like "compelling feature" or "fascinating aspect" offer similar nuances. Mastering its appropriate application ensures writing that is both descriptive and impactful.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

compelling feature

Focuses on the quality of being irresistible or attention-grabbing.

fascinating aspect

Emphasizes the intrigue and interest the element provides.

enthralling element

Highlights the power of the element to hold one's attention completely.

riveting particularity

Stresses the ability of a specific aspect to grab and hold interest.

arresting nuance

Emphasizes the subtle yet striking quality of a detail.

striking feature

Focuses on a detail that stands out and is immediately noticeable.

intriguing facet

Highlights a detail that is curious and provokes interest.

alluring particular

Highlights the attractive and tempting nature of a specific detail.

charming intricacy

Emphasizes the delightful and complex nature of a detail.

engrossing element

Highlights the ability of a detail to completely occupy one's attention.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "captivating detail" in a sentence?

Use "captivating detail" to highlight a specific element that significantly enhances the appeal or interest of something. For example, "The novel's success relied on the "captivating detail" about the protagonist's hidden past".

What are some alternatives to "captivating detail"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "compelling feature", "fascinating aspect", or "enthralling element" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "captivating detail" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "captivating detail" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing elements that add significant value or interest. However, ensure it's used judiciously and fits the overall tone of the piece.

What distinguishes "captivating detail" from merely "interesting detail"?

"Captivating detail" suggests a stronger pull on the audience's attention and evokes a sense of wonder or fascination. In contrast, "interesting detail" simply implies something that piques curiosity without necessarily enthralling the audience.