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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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directionally speaking

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "directionally speaking" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing perspectives or viewpoints related to direction or orientation in a metaphorical sense. Example: "Directionally speaking, we need to consider how our decisions will impact the future of the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

speaking style.

speaking rate.

Unlike other international attempts to integrate Twitter, uni-directionally, Twision viewers are able to use the #veo7 hashtag to speak directly to presenters and influence where the program's discussion goes — branded "twittertulia".

News & Media

TechCrunch

Speak, speak".

News & Media

The New Yorker

We call such misalignments "loose speak".

"I speak.

Still, the Henderson report is directionally right.

Lower-middle: directionally shaded X-ray (similar to figure 11).

Dispersal can be directionally biased.

The result is a more immersive, less directionally linear experience.

DOJ v Wall Street: from zero to hero This rampage is great … directionally.

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Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "directionally speaking" to introduce a statement that clarifies the orientation or perspective being considered, especially when discussing abstract concepts where a clear direction provides context.

Common error

Avoid using "directionally speaking" when a simpler adverb like "directionally" suffices. The phrase is most effective when framing a complex perspective.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

60%

Authority and reliability

3.1/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "directionally speaking" functions as an introductory adverbial phrase. It serves to preface a statement, indicating that the following information should be understood from a particular viewpoint related to direction or orientation. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "directionally speaking" is a grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to introduce a perspective related to direction or orientation. While Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical validity, there are currently no available examples. The phrase functions to provide context, alerting the audience to the directional focus of the subsequent statement. Alternatives such as "in terms of direction" and "from a directional perspective" offer similar meanings, and writers should use "directionally" instead of "directionally speaking" when framing a complex perspective.

FAQs

How can I use "directionally speaking" in a sentence?

Use "directionally speaking" to introduce a statement that offers a perspective related to direction or orientation. For example, "Directionally speaking, our strategy needs a course correction."

What can I say instead of "directionally speaking"?

You can use alternatives like "in terms of direction", "from a directional perspective", or simply "directionally" depending on the context.

Is "directionally speaking" formal or informal?

"Directionally speaking" tends to be neutral to slightly formal. The formality can depend on the surrounding language and the context in which it is used.

When is it appropriate to use "directionally speaking" over other similar phrases?

Use "directionally speaking" when you want to emphasize that you are providing an assessment or viewpoint specifically related to the direction or orientation of something. Other phrases may lack this specific directional focus.

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Authority and reliability

3.1/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: