details are sparse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "details are sparse" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing a situation or topic where information is limited or not fully developed. For example, "The report was submitted, but the details are sparse, making it difficult to draw conclusions." Alternative expressions include "information is limited," "details are lacking," and "data is insufficient."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

True, vivifying details are sparse.

The New Yorker

There are no early indicators of what specifically caused the wreck, and details are sparse.

The New Yorker

The importance of the phasing of the combustion event for internal-combustion engines is well appreciated, but quantitative details are sparse.

Energy Conversion and Management

"While the incident is still under investigation and details are sparse, what we do know is after the break-in, mementos were gathered and a fire was started in the chapel," Ms. Parvizi wrote.

The New York Times

Details are sparse — naturally — but the theatre's artistic director, Vicky Featherstone, hinted that it might be more autobiographical than previous works, describing it as being about four women who are roughly Churchill's age.

The New Yorker

Details are sparse.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

Details were sparse.

The New York Times

The details were sparse, as if she were afraid of divulging too much over an insecure line.

The New Yorker

Details were sparse, but officials said that a purchase made by an outside company in 2003 might have prompted the outbreak, which has panicked Panama.

The New York Times

Although details were sparse it appears shots were initially fired at people walking in the street near a restaurant and then in an adjoining street.

The Guardian

"Details were sparse but we were told he had no brain activity.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When reporting on ongoing investigations or breaking news, use "details are sparse" to acknowledge the preliminary nature of the information. This manages reader expectations and maintains journalistic integrity.

Common error

Avoid presenting speculation as fact when "details are sparse". Clearly differentiate between what is known and what is inferred to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "details are sparse" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb or clause. It typically indicates the extent to which information is available. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

17%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "details are sparse" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to indicate a lack of comprehensive information. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability across various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, as well as scientific reporting, it serves to manage expectations and acknowledge uncertainty. When using this phrase, it's important to avoid overstating certainty and to clearly differentiate between known facts and inferences. Alternative phrases such as "information is limited" or "specifics are scant" can be used to convey similar meanings with slightly different nuances. Remember to use it judiciously to maintain clarity and credibility in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

information is limited

Focuses on the scarcity of information available.

specifics are scant

Highlights the lack of specific information.

particulars are few

Emphasizes the small number of details provided.

data is lacking

Stresses the absence of sufficient data.

information is incomplete

Suggests that the available information is not whole or finished.

the full picture is unclear

Indicates that a complete understanding is not possible due to missing information.

few specifics are available

Highlights the limited availability of detailed information.

the story is sketchy

Implies that the account is vague and lacks detail.

the account is vague

Describes the information as unclear and imprecise.

the picture is hazy

Suggests that understanding is obscured due to lack of clarity.

FAQs

How can I use "details are sparse" in a sentence?

You can use "details are sparse" to indicate that information about a particular event or topic is limited. For example, "While investigations are underway, "details are sparse" regarding the cause of the incident."

What does it mean when "details are sparse"?

When "details are sparse", it means that only a small amount of information is available or known about something. It suggests a lack of comprehensive or specific information.

What can I say instead of "details are sparse"?

You can use alternatives like "information is limited", "specifics are scant", or "particulars are few" to convey a similar meaning.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase "details are sparse"?

The phrase "details are sparse" is appropriate in contexts where you want to acknowledge a lack of information, such as in news reports, academic analyses, or general discussions where the full story is not yet known. It's commonly used when "information is incomplete".