eye for detail

USAGE SUMMARY

"eye for detail" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe someone who has a great capacity to notice even small details in a subject or project. For example, "With his remarkable eye for detail, John was able to find several typos in the company's annual report."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His eye for detail was impeccable.

The New York Times - Arts

That eye for detail served Liberman well.

The New Yorker

She has a good eye for detail.

The New York Times - Magazine

Such an eye for detail!

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Jastrow has an eye for detail.

The New York Times - Sports

Its eye for detail inspires me.

The New York Times - Sports

Cheever's eye for detail is impeccable.

The New York Times - Books

And O'Brien's eye for detail is exemplary.

The Guardian - Books

He has an eye for detail.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And his eye for detail is fine.

The New York Times - Arts

He's got a shrewd eye for detail.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "eye for detail" with specific examples to demonstrate the person's capability, such as "His eye for detail was evident in the meticulous design of the product."

Common error

Avoid using "eye for detail" when referring to general observations or broad assessments; it specifically applies to noticing and appreciating finer points. Instead of saying "He had an eye for detail in the overall strategy", specify the precise, detailed elements he noticed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "eye for detail" functions as a noun phrase that describes a particular skill or ability. As Ludwig AI says, it highlights a capacity to notice even small details. The examples show it's used to praise meticulousness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Books

16%

Lifestyle

9%

Less common in

Sports

6%

Arts

6%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "eye for detail" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe someone's ability to notice and appreciate subtle aspects, making them meticulous and precise. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely accepted and used. It is most frequently found in News & Media, Books, and Lifestyle content, and its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse contexts. If you want to highlight someone's thoroughness, using "eye for detail" is an effective way to convey their exceptional attentiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sharp attention to detail

Emphasizes attentiveness as the primary attribute.

ability to spot nuances

Specifically refers to the capacity to notice subtle distinctions.

adept at noticing subtleties

Highlights expertise in identifying subtle elements.

keen observation skills

Focuses on the skill of observing rather than the inherent ability.

discriminating eye

Suggests an ability to distinguish between fine differences.

meticulous approach

Highlights a careful and thorough method.

talent for accuracy

Emphasizes a natural aptitude for being accurate.

strong observational prowess

Highlights exceptional skill in observing.

skill for precision

Focuses on the ability to be precise and accurate.

perceptive insight

Focuses on understanding and interpreting details.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "eye for detail" in a sentence?

Use "eye for detail" to describe someone's ability to notice and appreciate small but significant aspects of a subject. For instance, "The artist's "eye for detail" made her paintings incredibly realistic".

What are some alternative phrases for "eye for detail"?

You can use alternatives such as "keen observation skills", "sharp attention to detail", or "meticulous approach" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it correct to say "eye for details" instead of "eye for detail"?

While "details" is the plural form of "detail", the phrase "eye for detail" is the standard and more common expression. Using "eye for details" is less conventional.

What distinguishes having an "eye for detail" from simply being observant?

Having an ""eye for detail"" implies a deeper appreciation and understanding of the finer points, whereas being observant generally means noticing things. Someone with an ""eye for detail"" not only notices but also understands the significance of small elements.