comprehensive biography

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "comprehensive biography" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a detailed and thorough account of someone's life, including significant events, achievements, and personal insights. Example: "The author spent years researching to create a comprehensive biography of the famous scientist, capturing every aspect of his life and work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

It's a comprehensive biography.

The Guardian - Film

This first comprehensive biography rightly keeps an eye on Parks after Montgomery.

The New York Times - Books

Thus a pretty comprehensive biography winds its way through her text.

The Guardian - Books

Ms. Claridge's book is the first comprehensive biography of Rockwell, and, one hopes, not the last.

The New York Times - Books

"I am so happy that we have a comprehensive biography that's a starting place," Ms. Brennan said.

The New York Times

Heilbron's witty, ironic and scientifically detailed approach to Galileo's life could well make this the standard comprehensive biography.

The New York Times - Books

The most comprehensive biography to date has been Paul Alexander's "Salinger" (1999), which was sympathetic but far from hagiographic.

The New York Times - Books

Even the most comprehensive biography of Mendieta's, Naked at the Window by Robert Katz, never mentions her by name once.

The Guardian

Subsequent books largely bolstered this narrative — first, memoirs by Zweig's first wife, Friderike; then, in 1972, a comprehensive biography by D. A. Prater, produced under Friderike's watchful eye.

The New Yorker

In 1836 he married his cousin Virginia, whose illness supposedly made her more appealing to him.This is not a comprehensive biography, nor is it meant to be.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Dr. Harper collaborated with Ralph E. Shikes, a publisher and editor, on "Pissarro: His Life and Work" (1980), one of the first comprehensive biographies of the Impressionist painter.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing or requesting a "comprehensive biography", clearly define the scope and depth of detail expected to ensure the author covers all relevant aspects of the subject's life.

Common error

Avoid using "comprehensive biography" when referring to a short or superficial account of someone's life. Ensure the biography genuinely covers all major aspects and details to warrant the term.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "comprehensive biography" functions as a noun phrase, where "comprehensive" modifies the noun "biography". It describes a biography that is thorough, complete, and detailed, providing a full account of someone's life. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "comprehensive biography" is a common and grammatically correct term used to describe a thorough and detailed account of someone's life. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase functions as a noun phrase, denoting a biography that covers all significant aspects of the subject. It is frequently found in news media, encyclopedias, and academic writing. For alternative expressions, one might consider "detailed biography" or "exhaustive life story". When using the term, ensure the biography genuinely encompasses all major aspects of the subject's life to accurately reflect its comprehensive nature.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

detailed biography

Highlights the level of detail provided in the biography.

definitive biography

Positions the biography as the final and most authoritative account.

exhaustive life story

Emphasizes the completeness of the life story, suggesting every detail is included.

full-scale biography

Suggests a biography that covers all aspects of the person's life.

thorough life account

Stresses the meticulous and careful nature of the life's account.

in-depth life study

Highlights the detailed and analytical nature of the biography.

extensive biographical work

Emphasizes the breadth and scale of the biographical undertaking.

complete biographical record

Focuses on the record aspect, implying all-inclusive documentation of a life.

all-encompassing biography

Implies that the biography leaves no stone unturned.

elaborate life history

Suggests a high level of detail and embellishment in the portrayal of the life.

FAQs

What does "comprehensive biography" mean?

A "comprehensive biography" is a thorough and detailed account of a person's life, including significant events, personal experiences, achievements, and influences. It aims to provide a complete understanding of the subject.

How detailed should a "comprehensive biography" be?

A "comprehensive biography" should include details about the person's early life, education, career, relationships, major accomplishments, challenges, and legacy. It should also incorporate insights from various sources, such as letters, interviews, and other biographical materials.

What are some alternatives to "comprehensive biography"?

Alternatives include "detailed biography", "exhaustive biography", or "thorough life account". The best choice depends on the specific context and the aspect you want to emphasize.

Is there a difference between a biography and a "comprehensive biography"?

While both biographies and "comprehensive biographies" tell a life story, a "comprehensive biography" implies a greater depth of research and a more complete portrayal of the subject. A regular biography might focus on specific aspects or periods of the person's life, while a comprehensive one aims for completeness.