careful observation of details

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "careful observation of details" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where attention to detail is important, such as in research, analysis, or artistic endeavors. Example: "The success of the project relied heavily on the careful observation of details during the data collection phase."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedia Britannica

Islamic arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Thus, the personality of the poet becomes visible only through the minimal changes of expression and rhythm and the application of certain preferred metaphors, just as the personality of the miniature painter can be detected by a careful observation of details, of his way of colouring a rock or deepening the shade of a turban.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Whether painting the White or Green mountains, the Catskills, or a lonely strip of Atlantic shoreline at Newport, Rhode Island, he conveyed a strong sense of locale through his careful observation of detail and his deep sensitivity to the nuances of atmosphere.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They are all based on careful observation of their properties.

The Guardian

I made a careful observation of the vehicle and called the police.

The New Yorker

Rather, the Swiffer emerged from P&G's careful observation of the challenges of household cleaning.

Harvard Business Review

In its careful observation of the natural world it reminds me of Oliver Rackham's History of the Countryside.

The Guardian - Books

Careful observation of morphological architecture and expression of immunohistochemical markers may support diagnosis.

Human Pathology: Case Reports

But as always with Mr. Fugard, censure of policy comes only through careful observation of its human costs.

The New York Times

Viewers, through careful observation of images of horror, become witnesses who "can occasionally foresee or predict the future," she writes.

The New Yorker

The work to study these questions is ongoing and involves careful observation of the molecules of life.

MIT Technology Review

These stereotypes, needless to say, don't seem to result from careful observation of the groups in question.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In contexts where precision is key, such as scientific reports or legal documents, "careful observation of details" reinforces the importance of accuracy.

Common error

Avoid using "careful observation of details" in casual conversation or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler phrases like "paying attention to details" or "noticing small things" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "careful observation of details" functions primarily as a noun phrase that emphasizes the importance of thoroughness and precision. As seen in the example provided by Ludwig, it describes a process or skill, crucial in fields like art and science where accuracy is paramount.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "careful observation of details" is a noun phrase used to emphasize thoroughness and precision, particularly in formal contexts. While infrequent, according to Ludwig, its usage is grammatically correct and most appropriate in scientific, academic, or analytical writing. Alternative phrases like "meticulous examination of specifics" or "close scrutiny of particulars" can be used to convey similar meanings, depending on the specific nuance desired. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the formality of your context to avoid sounding pretentious. Remember that while the phrase is correct, it appears less often in contemporary texts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

meticulous examination of specifics

Emphasizes thoroughness and precision in the examination process.

close scrutiny of particulars

Highlights the act of closely and critically examining individual items.

thorough inspection of minute points

Focuses on a complete and detailed investigation of very small elements.

diligent review of specific items

Stresses the consistent and dedicated effort in reviewing individual elements.

attentive consideration of individual aspects

Highlights thoughtful and careful attention to each separate part.

detailed analysis of particular elements

Emphasizes an in-depth analysis of specific components.

precise assessment of individual features

Focuses on the accurate and exact evaluation of separate characteristics.

scrupulous attention to precise points

Highlights a very careful and thorough focus on exact elements.

critical observation of specific traits

Focuses on making careful judgements and evaluations of qualities or feature.

thorough investigation of individual characteristics

Stresses conducting a thorough and detailed exploration of separate qualities.

FAQs

How can I use "careful observation of details" in a sentence?

You might say, "The success of the project relied on the "careful observation of details" during the data collection phase" or "His artistic talent is evident in the "careful observation of details" in his paintings."

What are some alternatives to "careful observation of details"?

Alternatives include "meticulous examination of specifics", "close scrutiny of particulars", or "thorough inspection of minute points" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "careful observation of details" in writing?

It is appropriate in contexts where thoroughness and accuracy are important, such as academic papers, scientific reports, or formal analyses. Avoid using it in casual or informal settings.

What makes "careful observation of details" different from simply "paying attention"?

"Careful observation of details" implies a more deliberate, systematic, and thorough approach than simply "paying attention", which can be more general and less focused.