on a macroscopic scale

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a macroscopic scale" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in scientific or analytical contexts to refer to observations or phenomena that can be seen or measured at a large scale, as opposed to a microscopic or detailed level. Example: "When examining the ecosystem, we must consider the interactions between species on a macroscopic scale to understand the overall health of the environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

At Johnson Matthey examples of both types of composite technology, one requiring engineering on a macroscopic scale, the other requiring nanoscale control of the way in which the two components are combined, are currently being developed.

Filtration & Separation

Volume is one of the most important features for the characterization of a tumour on a macroscopic scale.

Computer Methods and Programs in Biomedicine

As most matter is made of protons, this could lead to new research areas on a macroscopic scale as well.

Harvard University

Cyclic fatigue fracture on a macroscopic scale revealed features reminiscent of locally ductile and brittle mechanisms.

Materials & Design

These properties have since been observed in a wide variety of experiments, demonstrating quantum mechanical effects on a macroscopic scale.

Encyclopedia Britannica

With an equal number of dipoles of the same size on each set, there is no net spontaneous magnetization on a macroscopic scale.

Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

Invasion, regions of increased cellularity, necrosis on a microscopic and a macroscopic scale, hemorrhage, and microvascular proliferation are hallmarks of the most malignant of gliomas.

BioMed Research International

The use of high-precision nanomanipulators with OFMS allows to position probe tips on a selected structure on a macroscopic-scale sample with nanometer precision.

Microelectronic Engineering

TPHM is based on a macroscopic-scale approximation using a natural-strain-based Hooke's law to describe elastic deformation for a fraction of pores subject to a large degree of deformation; an engineering-strain-based Hooke's law is used for the other part.

International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences

The quantum Hall effect (QHE), one example of a quantum phenomenon that occurs on a truly macroscopic scale, has attracted intense interest since its discovery in 1980 and has helped elucidate many important aspects of quantum physics.

Science Magazine

According to the principle of microscopic reversibility, at equilibrium there is continuous activity on a microscopic (i.e., atomic or molecular) level, although on a macroscopic (observable) scale the system may be considered as standing still.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on a macroscopic scale" to emphasize that your observation or analysis considers the whole system or a large, easily observable part of it, rather than focusing on microscopic details. This is particularly useful in scientific, engineering, and medical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "on a macroscopic scale" when you actually mean to discuss details at a very small or molecular level. "Macroscopic" refers to what is visible or measurable to the naked eye or with standard instruments, not to minute, detailed structures.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a macroscopic scale" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify the level of observation or analysis being considered. It indicates that something is being viewed or assessed in terms of its larger, more visible aspects, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

73%

Encyclopedias

14%

Academia

7%

Less common in

News & Media

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on a macroscopic scale" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adverbial phrase, especially in scientific, academic, and technical contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage, indicating it serves to specify that an observation or analysis is considering larger, more visible aspects rather than microscopic details. While alternatives like "on a large scale" exist, "on a macroscopic scale" provides a specific emphasis on observable dimensions. When writing, it's crucial to avoid confusing "macroscopic" with "microscopic" to maintain accuracy and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on a large scale

Focus shifts to the magnitude or extent of the observation.

at a macroscopic level

Changes the preposition and noun, but retains the core meaning referring to a larger, observable viewpoint.

in broad terms

Emphasizes a general or overall perspective, lacking the scientific precision of "macroscopic".

in general terms

Similar to "in broad terms", highlighting a lack of specific detail.

overall

A concise alternative, but less specific about the observational scale.

on a grand scale

Implies impressiveness and scope, but less technical and more figurative.

on a world scale

Specifically refers to a global perspective, narrowing the scope of 'macroscopic'.

at a global level

Focuses on worldwide or global phenomena.

in the big picture

An idiomatic expression emphasizing a comprehensive view, but losing scientific precision.

from a holistic perspective

Highlights interconnectedness and completeness, differing slightly from the pure observational aspect.

FAQs

How can I use "on a macroscopic scale" in a sentence?

Use "on a macroscopic scale" to indicate you are considering an entire system or its large-scale components rather than microscopic details. For example: "On a macroscopic scale, the forest appears healthy, but a closer look reveals widespread insect damage."

What are some alternatives to "on a macroscopic scale"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "on a large scale", "at a macroscopic level", or "in broad terms" to convey a similar meaning.

When is it appropriate to use "on a macroscopic scale"?

It's appropriate when you want to specify that you are analyzing or observing something at a level visible to the naked eye or with standard measuring tools, as opposed to a microscopic or molecular level. It is often used in scientific and analytical contexts.

What's the difference between "on a macroscopic scale" and "on a microscopic scale"?

"On a macroscopic scale" refers to observations or analyses at a large, visible level, while "on a microscopic scale" refers to examining something at a very small, detailed level, often requiring a microscope.