complete background

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complete background" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a thorough or comprehensive understanding of a subject or context. Example: "Before making a decision, it's essential to gather a complete background on the issue at hand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

That left the department with just two weeks to administer tests and complete background checks.

The New York Times

The department is scrambling to complete background checks on another 450 people who took the exam in 1999.

The New York Times

Although signs onstage say which country you're in, the guide gives complete background on the holiday or legend being enacted.

The New York Times - Arts

Sarsaf said it took about 20 months for authorities to complete background checks and grant him asylum.

The Washington Post

Business name: Complete Background Screening Ltd Based: Pontypridd Website: www.cbscreening.co.uk Person nominated: Rachel Bedgood, director CBS began from very humble beginnings.

The Guardian

But it is not unusual for senior-level executives in many companies to undergo even more complete background checks by a private investigating firm.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

With the approval of Roddenberry, Fletcher fashioned complete backgrounds for the alien races seen in the Earth and recreation deck sequences, describing their appearances and the composition of their costumes.

Wikipedia

And then a completed background investigation in late July.

The New Yorker

The FBI sends its completed background check to the White House.

The Washington Post

Each page usually ends with ToddMcFarlane, who has been completing background details.The work began about a year ago.

The New York Times - Arts

Under the law, nurses moving to Florida from states with comparable standards will be permitted to obtain Florida licenses after completing background checks.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing reports or articles, ensure that providing a "complete background" helps the reader understand the full scope of the topic. Offer sufficient detail to prevent confusion.

Common error

Avoid assuming readers already possess prior knowledge. Neglecting a "complete background" can lead to misinterpretations. Include sufficient detail to contextualize complex subjects effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complete background" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "complete" modifies the noun "background". It describes the thoroughness and comprehensiveness of information or history relevant to a subject, ensuring nothing crucial is omitted. As Ludwig indicates, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

20%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "complete background" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that serves to emphasize the comprehensiveness of information provided. According to Ludwig, this phrase is widely used across diverse contexts, including news media, scientific research, and academic writing. Understanding its usage, related alternatives, and common writing errors can help improve clarity and precision. The phrase's high frequency and presence in authoritative sources, as detailed in Ludwig, underscore its significance in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

thorough history

Emphasizes the depth of the historical information.

full account

Focuses on providing a comprehensive and detailed narrative.

extensive overview

Highlights the breadth and scope of the information.

comprehensive profile

Implies a detailed and all-inclusive depiction of a person or subject.

detailed context

Stresses the inclusion of nuanced and specific background information.

in-depth analysis

Focuses on the thorough examination and interpretation of the subject matter.

total picture

Emphasizes seeing the entire scenario without omitting crucial information.

entire story

Highlights the inclusion of all relevant details to understand the complete narrative.

exhaustive research

Focuses on the diligence and thoroughness of the investigation.

full disclosure

Implies transparency and complete revelation of relevant information.

FAQs

How can I use "complete background" in a sentence?

You can use "complete background" to describe having or needing a thorough understanding of a subject. For instance, "To understand the economic crisis, a "complete background" on the housing market is necessary."

What phrases are similar to "complete background"?

Similar phrases include "thorough history", "full account", or "extensive overview". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "complete background" or "thorough background"?

"Complete background" and "thorough background" are largely interchangeable. However, "complete background" might suggest a finished or comprehensive understanding, whereas "thorough background" emphasizes the depth and rigor of the information.

In what situations is providing a "complete background" important?

Providing a "complete background" is important in situations where the audience needs detailed context to understand a complex topic, such as in academic research, legal proceedings, or investigative journalism.