expounding on something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "expounding on something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to elaborate or provide detailed explanations about a particular topic or idea. Example: "In her lecture, she spent a significant amount of time expounding on the importance of environmental conservation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

One is an adherence to due process, and the second, an adherence to the principle of equal application of the law, which is something you expounded on in these last three paragraphs.

The New York Times

These impacts and improvements clustered into three main themes that are described and expounded on below.

BMC Oral Health

With little prompting, Musk would start expounding on his desire to do something meaningful with his life something lasting.

Vice

In some instances, the guides are done by professionals who specialize in a specific field, in others, someone with a hobby expounds on something they love.

The New York Times

It's not something Twain spent much time expounding on in his own writing.

Los Angeles Times

And there's Mr. Crowe again, now expounding on camera.

The New York Times

Rep. Les Aspin (D-Wis). was onstage expounding on the lessons from Vietnam about military interventions.

The Washington Post

Her teacher had been expounding on the events in Huntington during the Revolutionary period.

The New York Times

There were no press-room soliloquies, expounding on the burden of being No. 1.

The New York Times - Sports

And on Wednesday, he was stoking those sentiments at a news conference, expounding on arsenic.

The New York Times

Expounding on the subject during a recent visit to London, he began with two accurate assertions.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "expounding on something" when you want to convey a sense of thoroughness and depth in your explanation. It's suitable for formal contexts where a detailed account is necessary.

Common error

Avoid using "expounding on something" in casual conversations. Simpler alternatives like "explaining" or "talking about" are often more appropriate for informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "expounding on something" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the act of elaborating or providing a detailed explanation. As Ludwig indicates, it is grammatically sound and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "expounding on something" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe the act of explaining or elaborating on a topic in detail. Ludwig's analysis of real-world examples confirms its usage across various contexts, particularly in news, academia, and science. While versatile, it's best suited for formal and neutral contexts, with simpler alternatives preferred for casual settings. Understanding its nuances ensures effective and appropriate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

elaborating on something

Focuses on adding details and expanding upon a topic.

expanding on something

Highlights the broadening or extension of a subject.

detailing something

Emphasizes providing specific details about a topic.

discussing something in depth

Focuses on a thorough and comprehensive discussion.

commenting on something at length

Implies a lengthy and detailed commentary.

providing a detailed explanation of something

Highlights the act of offering a thorough explanation.

going into detail about something

Suggests a comprehensive exploration of a topic's intricacies.

dwelling on something

Implies spending considerable time focusing on a topic.

presenting a thorough account of something

Focuses on giving a complete and comprehensive narrative.

offering a comprehensive analysis of something

Highlights providing a complete and detailed analysis.

FAQs

What does "expounding on something" mean?

The phrase "expounding on something" means to explain or discuss something in detail, often at length. It implies a thorough and comprehensive explanation.

How can I use "expounding on something" in a sentence?

You can use "expounding on something" when you want to indicate that someone is giving a detailed explanation of a particular topic. For example, "The professor spent the lecture "elaborating on" the complexities of quantum physics".

What are some alternatives to "expounding on something"?

Alternatives to "expounding on something" include "elaborating on", "expanding on", or "detailing something". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "expounding on something" in casual conversation?

While grammatically correct, "expounding on something" is more suited to formal or academic contexts. In casual conversation, simpler alternatives like "explaining" or "talking about" are generally more appropriate.