on a microscopic level

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a microscopic level" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing phenomena, processes, or structures that are observable or relevant at a very small scale, typically involving cells or molecules. Example: "The researchers studied the effects of the drug on a microscopic level to understand its impact on cellular functions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But there are yet more complex ones like how exactly, on a microscopic level, snow melts in mid-air.

TechCrunch

The new attribution is based on studies of underdrawings, a comparison of motifs and details on a microscopic level with similar ones in undisputed Bosch paintings, and an analysis of Bosch's brush work.

The New York Times - Arts

JH: But on a microscopic level, there is one teeny, tiny difference.

Huffington Post

Only these allowed one to observe the heterogeneity of the investigated area on a microscopic level, and thus helped to interpret the spectra correctly.

Heritage Science

It lifts stains from your surfaces using a type of physical reaction, rather than a chemical one, and it essentially works by sanding the stained surface on a microscopic level.

WikiHow

On a microscopic level, the state is very complicated, right?

Yale University

More important are the changes wrought by the washes on a microscopic level.

The Washington Post

On a microscopic level, every function of life is performed by biological macromolecules.

University of California, Berkeley

Houck, who wants to build the world's first quantum computer, studies electronics on a microscopic level.

Princeton University

"On a microscopic level, the inflammatory response involves dozens of different chemicals, each performing a specific action".

The New York Times - Health

That can happen on a large scale -- earthquakes come to mind -- but it can happen on a microscopic level too.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on a microscopic level", ensure the context clearly indicates that you're discussing phenomena observable with a microscope or involving structures at a cellular or molecular scale. For instance, specify the objects, phenomena, or resolution you are observing.

Common error

Avoid using "on a microscopic level" when you mean to describe something that is simply small or detailed but not actually requiring a microscope for observation. Overusing the phrase can reduce the impact of its correct usage in more technical or scientific contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a microscopic level" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to specify the scale at which an action or observation occurs. Ludwig examples show it clarifying how processes are examined, influences are exerted, or structures are observed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on a microscopic level" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, especially in scientific and technical contexts. Ludwig confirms its proper usage, indicating its role in specifying scales of observation and analysis. When employing this phrase, ensure that the surrounding context aligns with the concept of microscopic observation, and consider alternative phrases like "at the microscopic scale" for varied expression. It is important to remember that this is a precise term for technical and scientific content and must not be overused in everyday conversations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the microscopic scale

Replaces "level" with "scale", slightly altering the nuance but retaining the core meaning of examining something very small.

at a cellular level

Specifies the scale as "cellular", focusing on biological cells as the unit of analysis.

on a molecular scale

Emphasizes the molecular aspect, shifting the focus to the arrangement and behavior of molecules.

under magnification

Highlights the use of magnification to observe details that are not visible to the naked eye.

in minute detail

Focuses on the thoroughness and precision with which something is examined, implying a very small scale.

with microscopic precision

Combines the idea of small scale with the accuracy and exactness of the observation.

at the subatomic level

Shifts the focus to an even smaller scale than microscopic, referring to particles within atoms.

in terms of micrometers

Specifies the unit of measurement, highlighting the use of very small units.

at the nanoscale

Refers to a scale of nanometers, which is smaller than micrometers, but still relevant to small-scale analysis.

in close-up

Implies a detailed view, similar to using a magnifying lens, but does not specify the scale as precisely.

FAQs

How can I use "on a microscopic level" in a sentence?

Use "on a microscopic level" to describe observations, analyses, or effects that occur at the scale of cells, molecules, or other structures visible with a microscope. For example, "The researchers examined the tissue damage "on a microscopic level" to understand the disease's progression."

What are some alternatives to "on a microscopic level"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "at the microscopic scale", "at a cellular level", or "on a molecular scale" to convey a similar meaning. The choice depends on the specific scale you are referring to.

Is it correct to use "on a microscopic level" in a general context?

While grammatically correct, "on a microscopic level" is best suited for contexts involving scientific analysis or observations requiring magnification. Using it too broadly might sound overly technical or precise in everyday conversation.

What's the difference between "on a microscopic level" and "in minute detail"?

"On a microscopic level" specifically refers to observations made using a microscope or at a very small scale, while "in minute detail" simply means something is examined very thoroughly and carefully, without necessarily implying the use of magnification.