dovetail nicely

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dovetail nicely" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe how two or more things fit together well or complement each other effectively. Example: "The new policy changes dovetail nicely with our existing strategies, enhancing overall efficiency."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

So do hours that, while demanding, dovetail nicely.

The New York Times

This would dovetail nicely with the incentives of the owners.

The Economist

New voices that pick up the narrative also dovetail nicely with Molly's.

The New York Times - Books

Being crowned victor would dovetail nicely with his British tour later this year, he said.

The Guardian - Music

Instead, each partner orders bits and bobs, typically from compatriots, hoping that everything will dovetail nicely in Cadarache.

The Economist

On the face of it, Mr. Zhu's goals dovetail nicely with those of Xi Jinping, the new Communist Party leader who is to become president next month.

The New York Times

After all, many of the objectives — like bolstering America's manufacturing might and promoting access to foreign markets — dovetail nicely with G.E.'s own global industrial businesses.

The New York Times

While Mr. Dobson says IAC didn't get the About Group for cheap, he believes the unit will dovetail nicely with the company's strategy for Ask.com.com

The New York Times

But when élite and generally liberal publications start broadcasting dubious catch phrases that dovetail nicely with such explanations, I start to worry.

The New Yorker

A deal for NetApp would dovetail nicely with the company's long-term strategy to become a one-stop information technology shop.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Robinson's & Cohen's expansionist goals dovetailed nicely for a time.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dovetail nicely" to describe situations where different elements not only fit together but also enhance each other, creating a more effective or pleasing outcome. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "dovetail nicely" in situations that demand extremely formal or technical language. While versatile, it might sound slightly informal in highly academic or legal writing. Consider using more precise terms like "integrate seamlessly" or "align perfectly" for enhanced formality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dovetail nicely" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe how actions, ideas, or objects fit together in a complementary and harmonious way. As confirmed by Ludwig, it indicates a beneficial and seamless connection.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "dovetail nicely" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression to describe the harmonious integration of elements. As affirmed by Ludwig, it is most commonly found in News & Media sources, with substantial presence in Science and Formal & Business contexts. The phrase, while versatile, maintains a neutral register, suitable for diverse audiences. When more precision is required, alternatives such as "fit together well" or "align perfectly" can be used. However, "dovetail nicely" remains a reliable and effective choice for conveying the idea of complementary and beneficial alignment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fit together well

Emphasizes the smooth integration of elements.

align perfectly

Highlights the precise agreement or correspondence.

harmonize effectively

Stresses the pleasing combination of elements.

complement each other

Focuses on how each element enhances the other.

correspond neatly

Highlights the orderly and clear relationship.

integrate seamlessly

Emphasizes the smooth and unnoticed combination.

mesh effectively

Highlights the interlocking or interwoven nature of the connection.

coordinate smoothly

Focuses on the synchronized action or arrangement.

work in tandem

Highlights the collaborative aspect of the relationship.

click into place

Emphasizes the satisfying and intuitive fit.

FAQs

How can I use "dovetail nicely" in a sentence?

You can use "dovetail nicely" to describe how two or more things fit together well or complement each other. For example, "The new policy changes "dovetail nicely" with our existing strategies, enhancing overall efficiency."

What can I say instead of "dovetail nicely"?

You can use alternatives like "fit together well", "align perfectly", or "harmonize effectively" depending on the context.

Is "dovetail nicely" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "dovetail nicely" is generally appropriate for formal writing, though in very technical or legal contexts, more precise alternatives like "integrate seamlessly" or "correspond neatly" might be preferred.

What's the difference between "dovetail nicely" and "complement each other"?

"Dovetail nicely" suggests a smooth and interlocking fit, whereas "complement each other" focuses on how each element enhances the qualities of the other. While similar, "dovetail nicely" often implies a structural or functional compatibility.