matches the description

USAGE SUMMARY

"matches the description" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used when describing something that fits a pre-existing description. For example, "This dress matches the description I was given, so it must be the right one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

This matches the description found in Hesiod's Theogony (7th century bc).

Encyclopedia Britannica

The vehicle matches the description of a car used in a gang-related shooting in August.

The New York Times

"It matches the description of what we have been looking for," Petty Officer Danielle DeMarino, a Coast Guard spokeswoman, said of the boat.

The New York Times

"The body matches the description of Mr Ian Jones, who has been missing in the Hudson river since the morning of Saturday after a kayaking accident.

The Guardian

Since then, Mr. O'Brien said, detectives have identified a prisoner who matches the description, and locked up a drug dealer who may have some knowledge about the case.

The New York Times

"If you know someone who matches the description of our suspect, who has a similar injury, then I would urge you to contact my officers".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

He matched the description of Zarqawi.

The New Yorker

They watched a woman matching the description of their target leave the store and drive off.

The Washington Post

"If the car doesn't match the description, I'll negotiate down the price".

The New York Times

Their size and texture seemed to match the description given of the Century macaroon.

The New York Times

*A song matching the description of "Boogie, Oogie, Oogie" was last seen..

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "matches the description" when you want to clearly state that something corresponds to a set of predefined characteristics or features. This ensures clear communication and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

While generally acceptable, consider more formal alternatives like "corresponds to" or "aligns with" in highly formal or academic writing to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "matches the description" functions as a predicate adjective, linking a subject to a descriptive attribute. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it indicates that the subject possesses the characteristics outlined in a given description. Examples show its common use in identifying people, objects, or situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

20%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "matches the description" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that something corresponds to a given set of characteristics. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and utility across various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, it serves to identify or verify subjects, objects, or situations. While generally neutral in tone, substituting more formal alternatives, such as "corresponds to the description" or "aligns with the description", can be preferable in highly formal settings. Ultimately, mastering its usage ensures clarity and accuracy in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

corresponds to the description

Emphasizes a direct relationship or alignment with the given description.

fits the description

Indicates that something satisfies the requirements of the description.

mirrors the description

Highlights a reflective or very close resemblance to the description.

aligns with the description

Highlights that something is in agreement or harmony with the description.

conforms to the description

Stresses adherence to the standards or characteristics outlined in the description.

is consistent with the description

Indicates that something does not contradict the description and maintains compatibility.

is in accordance with the description

Suggests a formal agreement or compliance with the description.

bears a resemblance to the description

Implies a similarity or likeness to the description, though not necessarily a perfect match.

approximates the description

Indicates a close but not exact similarity to the provided description.

is analogous to the description

Suggests a comparison or parallel to the description in certain aspects.

FAQs

How can I use "matches the description" in a sentence?

You can use "matches the description" to indicate that something fits a set of characteristics. For example, "The suspect's vehicle "matches the description" provided by the witness."

What are some alternatives to "matches the description"?

Alternatives include "corresponds to the description", "fits the description", or "aligns with the description". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "matches the description" or "matched the description"?

Use "matches the description" for present tense or general statements. Use "matched the description" for past tense. For example, "The car "matches the description" now," versus "The car "matched the description" yesterday."

What's the difference between "matches the description" and "similar to the description"?

"Matches the description" implies a more precise correspondence, suggesting a close fit to all or most characteristics. "Similar to the description" indicates a general resemblance, without necessarily meeting all criteria.