exacting patron

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exacting patron" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a patron who has very high standards or demands, often in the context of art, performance, or service industries. Example: "The artist struggled to meet the expectations of her exacting patron, who insisted on perfection in every detail."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

In 1854 he gained a powerful but exacting patron in the art critic John Ruskin.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

INTERIOR design is notorious for its divas and spoiled, exacting patrons.

The New York Times

Goethe House, built to his specifications by his patron, is an exact reflection of his mind and the most perfect writer's house ever conceived.

BBC

The patron agreed.

The New York Times

Patron of the Arts.

The New York Times

St. Zita, patron saint.

The New Yorker

Patron of NY Public Library.

The New York Times

Patron, SKIDZ.

The Guardian

Patron, Khalsa Aid.

The Guardian

Princess Anne is the patron.

Independent

Lovecraft is its patron saint.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a patron, use the phrase "exacting patron" to convey that they have high standards and pay close attention to detail.

Common error

Avoid using "exacting patron" when you simply mean the patron is wealthy or influential. "Exacting" specifically refers to their demanding nature and high standards.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exacting patron" functions as a noun phrase where "exacting" modifies the noun "patron". It describes a specific type of patron characterized by high standards. Ludwig's examples show its use in describing historical figures and relationships.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "exacting patron" denotes a patron characterized by high standards and demanding expectations. While grammatically correct, its usage is relatively rare. Ludwig AI shows that it appears in encyclopedias and news media. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the patron's demanding nature rather than simply their wealth or influence. Alternatives such as "demanding benefactor" or "fastidious client" can offer nuanced meanings depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

demanding benefactor

Replaces "patron" with "benefactor" emphasizing the financial support aspect, and "exacting" with "demanding" focusing on the high expectations.

particular sponsor

Uses "particular" instead of "exacting", highlighting the specific requirements of the patron.

fastidious client

Replaces "patron" with "client" implying a business relationship, and "exacting" with "fastidious" emphasizing attention to detail.

precise contributor

Uses "contributor" to emphasize the financial support, and "precise" to describe the accuracy required in the contribution.

rigorous supporter

Employs "rigorous" instead of "exacting", denoting strictness and thoroughness in the support provided.

scrupulous backer

Replaces "patron" with "backer", and "exacting" with "scrupulous" emphasizing the high ethical standards expected.

stringent investor

Uses "investor" suggesting a financial stake, and "stringent" emphasizing strict conditions and expectations.

critical advocate

Replaces "patron" with "advocate", and "exacting" with "critical", focusing on providing feedback and expecting improvement.

discriminating customer

Uses "customer" to suggest a business relationship, and "discriminating" suggesting refined taste and standards.

meticulous donator

Replaces "patron" with "donator" emphasizing the financial gift, and "exacting" with "meticulous" emphasizing thoroughness and precision.

FAQs

What does the term "exacting patron" mean?

An "exacting patron" is a person who provides support (often financial) to an artist, organization, or cause, but who also has very high standards and is demanding in their expectations.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "exacting patron"?

Use "exacting patron" when you want to emphasize not only the support a patron provides but also their insistence on high quality and attention to detail. It implies a rigorous and demanding relationship.

Are there alternative phrases to "exacting patron" that I could use?

Yes, you could use phrases like "demanding benefactor", "particular sponsor", or "fastidious client" depending on the context.

How does "exacting patron" differ from a regular "patron"?

While a "patron" simply provides support, an "exacting patron" is distinguished by their high standards and demanding nature. The term "exacting" adds a layer of rigor and expectation beyond mere support.