conceptual refinement

USAGE SUMMARY

"conceptual refinement" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when describing the process of improving or refining a concept so that it is more precise or effective. For example, "The team spent months on conceptual refinement of the project proposal."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Conceptual refinement provided a practical avenue that other, less gifted politicians had not devised.

SEP

The qualification, that while face itself may be trans-culturally pervasive, features important to it in any particular culture may not be general across them all (Ho 1976, pp. 881 82), is an additional prime element of face that will be drawn upon in this paper for purposes of conceptual refinement.

The Journal of Chinese Sociology

Some domains may need further conceptual refinement.

Health Policy and Planning

40 Searches will be made for disconfirming cases, and continual conceptual refinement will be made throughout the analysis.

BMJ Open

Issues that arose from previous interviews were added as discussion points in later interviews to assist conceptual refinement.

BMJ Open

Development of the ACT occurred in four phases: (1) selection of the conceptual framework, (2) conceptual refinement, (3) item construction, and (4) feasibility assessment.

BMC Health Services Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

First, it uses criticisms on the multi-level perspective as stepping stones for further conceptual refinements.

Research Policy

He has also been forced to renounce normal language, which even in its most sophisticated conceptual refinements remains inextricably bound to the world of the senses and to our common sense.

Encyclopedia Britannica

We discuss issues implicated in inadequate efficacy, variability of responsiveness, and poor retention of benefit, while recommending design and conceptual refinements for future trials of cerebral neuromodulation in management of chronic neuropathic pain.

The Journal of Pain

The characteristics of MTO SMEs identified should be used in future research to develop more realistic simulations for testing conceptual refinements while field research should apply and extend the implementation strategy presented in order to develop a more detailed roadmap for successful WLC implementation in practice.

International Journal of Production Economics

The task of conceptual analysis, refinement and innovation or development is necessary to identify and understand previously neglected objects and relationships and thereby advance social theory.

The Journal of Chinese Sociology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "conceptual refinement" when you are talking about a process that makes an abstract idea better, not just clearer or easier to understand. For clarity-focused cases, consider 'conceptual clarification' instead.

Common error

Avoid using "conceptual refinement" in casual or informal writing. Its formal tone is better suited for academic papers, technical reports, or strategic documents.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "conceptual refinement" is as a noun phrase, often used as the object of a verb or the subject of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in academic and scientific contexts, indicating its suitability for formal discourse.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

80%

Academia

20%

News & Media

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "conceptual refinement" is a noun phrase that denotes the process of improving the precision or applicability of a concept, as Ludwig AI confirms. Predominantly used in formal and scientific contexts, it's essential to ensure its usage aligns with the appropriate register. While alternatives like "concept clarification" or "idea polishing" exist, "conceptual refinement" is specifically suited for academic and theoretical discussions. Remember to clearly define the concept being refined for enhanced clarity and impact in your writing. As Ludwig examples show, the phrase has applications in research methodology and theoretical frameworks.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Conceptual improvement

Directly indicates the act of making a concept better.

Concept clarification

Focuses on making a concept easier to understand, rather than necessarily improving it.

Idea polishing

Suggests a process of smoothing out the imperfections of an idea.

Theoretical refinement

Specifically relates to refining a theory, a structured set of ideas.

Conceptual revision

Implies a more substantial alteration or correction of a concept.

Intellectual honing

Implies a sharpening or focusing of intellectual understanding.

Thoughtful elaboration

Emphasizes expanding and developing an idea with careful consideration.

Conceptual evolution

Highlights the development and change of a concept over time.

Doctrinal amendment

Suggests formal correction of an established doctrine

Strategic amendment

Indicates improving a strategy

FAQs

How is "conceptual refinement" typically used in academic writing?

In academic writing, "conceptual refinement" often refers to the iterative process of improving the precision and clarity of a theoretical concept or model. It involves critical analysis, revision, and elaboration to enhance its explanatory power.

What are some practical steps involved in "conceptual refinement"?

Practical steps in "conceptual refinement" can include conducting literature reviews, gathering empirical data, engaging in peer review, and iteratively revising the concept based on feedback and new insights.

What's the difference between "conceptual refinement" and "conceptual clarification"?

"Conceptual refinement" implies improving the accuracy or applicability of a concept, while "conceptual clarification" focuses on making a concept easier to understand. Refinement aims for better quality; clarification aims for better comprehension.

When should I use "conceptual refinement" instead of a simpler term like "improvement"?

Use "conceptual refinement" when you specifically want to emphasize the intellectual or theoretical nature of the improvement. It's most appropriate when discussing abstract ideas, models, or frameworks, not just general enhancements.