marginal comments

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "marginal comments" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to notes or remarks made in the margins of a document, often providing additional insights or critiques. Example: "The professor provided marginal comments on my essay, highlighting areas for improvement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

The general user will gravitate toward his marginal comments.

The New York Times - Arts

Probably holding the original manuscript of Frederick the Great's Anti-Machiavel and reading Voltaire's marginal comments.

The Guardian - Books

In books such as War and Peace have no marginal comments.

The New Yorker

Larissa produces a complete draft, following the original almost word by word, with many marginal comments and observations.

The New York Times - Books

Doing without them is like saying we'll get back to the real Talmud if we eliminate the marginal comments.

The New York Times - Books

I would call that an honest answer, free of exaggeration and false claims, though I would offer some marginal comments.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

In interviews after "Marginal Comment" appeared, Mr. Dover expressed surprise at the controversy it engendered.

The New York Times

But his vast academic contributions were overshadowed in 1994 with the appearance of his provocative memoir, "Marginal Comment" (Duckworth).

The New York Times

In "Marginal Comment," Mr. Dover wrote of his relief -- even joy -- on learning of his colleague's suicide.

The New York Times

Blake's marginal comment on Sir Joshua Reynolds's Discourses expresses the position with characteristic vehemence: "To Generalize is to be an Idiot.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In "Marginal Comment," he wrote of fantasizing about a solution: "It was clear to me by now that Trevor and the college must somehow be separated," Mr. Dover wrote.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "marginal comments" when referring to brief notes or annotations added to the side of a text to provide context, critique, or explanation.

Common error

Ensure "marginal comments" are clearly distinguishable from the main body of text. Use formatting (e.g., italics, smaller font size) to differentiate them.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "marginal comments" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It refers to notes, remarks, or annotations added to the margins of a text. As Ludwig AI points out, the examples show it used in the context of books, manuscripts, and reports.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Books

20%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "marginal comments" is a noun phrase referring to notes or remarks added to the margins of a text. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and used across various contexts, including news media, science, and books. The phrase serves to describe and identify these notes, which provide additional information or commentary. While generally neutral to formal in register, the appropriateness depends on the specific context. When writing, ensure these comments are distinct from the main text and provide relevant insights. Alternatives like "annotations" or "side notes" can be used depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Side notes

This alternative uses a simpler term for notes made on the side of a document.

Annotations

This alternative is a more formal term for explanatory notes.

Footnotes

This alternative refers to notes placed at the bottom of a page, providing additional information.

Endnotes

This alternative refers to notes placed at the end of a chapter or document.

Commentary

This alternative refers to a set of explanatory or critical notes.

Remarks

This alternative is a general term for comments or observations.

Observations

This alternative highlights the act of noticing and commenting on something.

Jotted notes

This alternative emphasizes the informal and spontaneous nature of the notes.

Written remarks

This alternative specifies that the comments are in written form.

Additional remarks

This alternative focuses on the supplemental aspect of the comments.

FAQs

How can I use "marginal comments" effectively in academic writing?

In academic writing, use "marginal comments" to provide concise explanations, offer critiques, or raise questions about the main text. Ensure these comments are relevant and contribute to a deeper understanding of the material.

What is the difference between "annotations" and "marginal comments"?

"Marginal comments" are typically brief notes written in the margins of a text, whereas "annotations" can be more extensive and may include summaries, interpretations, or critical analyses. The former is usually more concise and directly related to the adjacent text.

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "marginal comments" in formal documents?

In formal documents, consider using alternatives such as "side notes", "annotations", or "additional remarks" to maintain a professional tone. The choice depends on the context and the depth of the notes provided.

Can "marginal comments" be used in non-written forms of communication?

While "marginal comments" primarily refer to written notes, the concept can be applied metaphorically to any additional remarks made alongside a primary form of communication, such as verbal presentations or visual displays. However, it's best to use the phrase literally in written contexts.