meticulous description

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'meticulous description' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are trying to emphasize the level of detail in which something has been described. For example, "The author provided a meticulous description of the character's physical appearance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Trials can be deadly dull, the Perry Mason moments outstripped by a medical examiner's meticulous description of a skull's architecture.

The New York Times

It was most convincing in the jaw-dropping visualization of the world's creation and the meticulous description of a boy's life in Texas.

Encyclopedia Britannica

After his meticulous description of each biological object or process, Paley draws again and again the same conclusion only an omniscient and omnipotent deity could account for these marvels and for the enormous diversity of inventions that they entail.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The novelist honors it with meticulous description, straining to take note of the rush of human sensations.

The New York Times - Books

Ms. King, for example, not only provides a meticulous description of what it was like to work in the Brill Building world of songwriters for hire around 1961, but she also tells how she came to write "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman," the 1967 hit for Aretha Franklin that provides the title of her book.

The New York Times - Arts

There, between a meticulous description of the city seal and a calendar of budget deadlines, was the figure: 321.9 square miles.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Ms. Boo's book includes meticulous descriptions and observations that she gathered during the four years she spent in Annawadi.

The New York Times

A bibliography may also consist of meticulous descriptions of the physical features of a number of books, including the paper, binding, printing, typography, and production processes used.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Read Mr. Lobel's meticulous descriptions, and draw in your own Richard Princes!

The New York Times

Their cleareyed assessments of the latest Mets calamity, their meticulous descriptions — they are not homers, nor do they do shtick — even the cadences of their voices add up to can't-miss talking baseball.

The New York Times - Arts

Fortunately, O'Neill was a copious writer of stage directions, sometimes giving long, meticulous descriptions of his characters as they are introduced and precise indications of both actions and their emotional inflection.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When crafting formal reports or analyses, use "meticulous description" to emphasize that the information is not only detailed but also carefully and precisely presented.

Common error

Avoid using "meticulous description" in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler phrases like "detailed explanation" or "thorough account" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "meticulous description" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "meticulous" modifies the noun "description". It emphasizes the high degree of detail and precision involved in the act of describing something. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Encyclopedias

16%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "meticulous description" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that conveys a high degree of detail and precision in describing something. It is particularly useful in formal writing contexts, where accuracy and thoroughness are essential. While it may not be suitable for casual conversation, it is valuable in reports, analyses, and other formal documents. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, and alternative phrases such as "thorough account" or "precise depiction" can be used depending on the context. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media, encyclopedias, and scientific writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

precise depiction

Highlights accuracy and exactness in representation.

accurate representation

Highlights the truthfulness and correctness of the depiction.

detailed portrayal

Emphasizes representation with rich information.

scrupulous detailing

Emphasizes the moral integrity and thoroughness of the details.

thorough account

Focuses on completeness rather than precision.

painstaking account

Highlights the effort and care taken in the detailing.

careful elaboration

Stresses the attentiveness and thoroughness of the detailing.

exhaustive explanation

Indicates a comprehensive and complete account.

minute specification

Focuses on the small and precise aspects of the details.

comprehensive narration

Emphasizes the all-inclusive nature of the descriptive storytelling.

FAQs

How can I use "meticulous description" in a sentence?

You can use "meticulous description" to emphasize the thoroughness and precision of a descriptive account. For example, "The report provided a "meticulous description" of the experimental procedure."

What are some synonyms for "meticulous description"?

Alternatives include "thorough account", "detailed portrayal", or "precise depiction", depending on the specific context.

Is "meticulous description" too formal for everyday conversation?

Yes, "meticulous description" is generally considered formal. In everyday conversation, simpler alternatives like "very detailed description" or "thorough explanation" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "meticulous description" and "detailed description"?

While both imply a high level of detail, "meticulous description" suggests an even greater degree of care, precision, and attention to detail than a simply "detailed description".