limit of detection

USAGE SUMMARY

"limit of detection" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It refers to the lowest amount or concentration of a substance that can be detected by a particular method or instrument. It is often used in scientific or technical writing. Example: The limit of detection for the new testing method was found to be 0.5 parts per million, making it more sensitive than previous methods.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Within weeks, the viral count fell below the limit of detection.

The New Yorker

Limit of detection.

Egyptian Journal of Forensic Sciences

polydimethylsiloxane. limit of detection.

Chemistry Central Journal

H. Limit of detection  .

Journal of Analytical Science and Technology

lower limit of detection.

AMB Express

LOD shows limit of detection.

Geochemical Transactions

Below the limit of detection.

Chemistry Central Journal

The minimum Limit of Detection.

Chemistry Central Journal

Figure 5 Limit of detection evaluation.

Nanoscale Research Letters

normalized signal response, DL limit of detection.

Nanoscale Research Letters

The limit of detection was 1 CFU.

AMB Express

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When reporting the "limit of detection", always specify the method or instrument used, as it's dependent on the specific analytical procedure.

Common error

Avoid using "limit of detection" interchangeably with "limit of quantification". The former refers to the lowest detectable level, while the latter refers to the lowest level that can be reliably quantified.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "limit of detection" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject or object in sentences discussing analytical methods and their sensitivity. Ludwig examples show it used in scientific reports and news articles.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

85%

News & Media

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "limit of detection" is a grammatically sound and highly prevalent term, especially within scientific and technical domains. Ludwig confirms that it serves to define the sensitivity of analytical methods, specifying the minimum detectable quantity of a substance. Given its presence in formal research and technical reports, its register is formal and scientific. It's important to remember that "limit of detection" differs from "limit of quantification", referring to detection versus reliable measurement. When using the phrase, always indicate the analytical method used, and remember, Ludwig provides ample examples for guidance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

detection limit

A shortened version of the original phrase, maintaining the core meaning.

lower limit of detection

Specifies that it's the lowest detectable value, adding clarity.

detection threshold

This term emphasizes the threshold nature of the detection limit, focusing on the point at which detection begins.

minimum detectable level

Replaces "limit" with "level", focusing on the quantity that can be detected.

detection floor

Uses "floor" as a metaphor for the lowest point of detection.

sensitivity threshold

Focuses on the sensitivity of the method or instrument, indicating the point at which it can detect something.

analytical sensitivity

Emphasizes the analytical method's ability to detect a substance.

assay sensitivity

Highlights the sensitivity of a specific assay or test.

detection capability

Refers to the ability to detect, rather than a specific limit.

quantification limit

Focuses on the limit at which the substance can not only be detected but also quantified.

FAQs

What does "limit of detection" mean in scientific terms?

In scientific terms, the "limit of detection" refers to the lowest quantity of a substance that can be reliably distinguished from the absence of that substance by a given analytical procedure. It's a key metric for assessing the sensitivity of a measurement.

How is the "limit of detection" determined?

The "limit of detection" is typically determined statistically, often based on the signal-to-noise ratio of the analytical method. Common methods include using three times the standard deviation of the blank signal or by analyzing a series of known low-concentration samples.

What factors influence the "limit of detection"?

Several factors can influence the "limit of detection", including the sensitivity of the instrument, the background noise, the sample preparation method, and the matrix effects. Optimizing these factors can improve the "detection threshold".

How does the "limit of detection" differ from the "limit of quantification"?

The "limit of detection" is the lowest level at which a substance can be reliably detected, whereas the "limit of quantification" is the lowest level at which a substance can be reliably measured with acceptable accuracy and precision. The LOQ is always higher than the LOD.