on a microscopic scale

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a microscopic scale" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing phenomena or observations that occur at a very small, often cellular or molecular, level. Example: "The researchers examined the effects of the drug on a microscopic scale, revealing changes in cell structure that were previously undetected."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Spatially resolved spectra are obtained on a microscopic scale using an infrared microscope.

Food Biophysics

On a microscopic scale paper is porous, directional, and rough.

Reference Module in Materials Science and Materials Engineering

Similarly, volume is a key feature on a microscopic scale.

Computer Methods and Programs in Biomedicine

In a paramagnetic substance, atomic dipoles are oriented on a microscopic scale.

Britannica

Other biological examples of criticality play out on a microscopic scale.

Princeton University

Misted windshields could become a thing of the past thanks to a clever material engineered on a microscopic scale.

MIT Technology Review

This study aims to investigate the extracellular matrix contribution on a microscopic scale.

Microelectronic Engineering

This process is caused by particle wear on a microscopic scale.

Building and Environment

The deformations of very thin sheet metals or foils are directly observed on a microscopic scale.

Journal of Materials Processing Technology

Therefore, flow sensitivity occurs via inflow of fresh spins on a microscopic scale.

Magnetic Resonance Materials in Physics, Biology and Medicine

Almost all taenite in meteorites has broken down, albeit often on a microscopic scale, to kamacite and tetrataenite.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing scientific studies, use "on a microscopic scale" to precisely indicate that the observations or manipulations were conducted at a cellular or molecular level. This adds clarity and specificity to your writing.

Common error

While "on a microscopic scale" is accurate, avoid using it excessively in contexts where the scale is already implied. Overusing such phrases can make your writing sound repetitive and less engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a microscopic scale" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to specify the scale at which an action or phenomenon occurs. Ludwig AI confirms this through its examples, illustrating how the phrase adds precision to descriptions in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

60%

Academia

15%

News & Media

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on a microscopic scale" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression, particularly within scientific and academic contexts. It serves to specify that observations or processes occur at a very small level, typically requiring magnification to be seen. Ludwig AI affirms the correctness and utility of this phrase. While versatile, it's best suited for formal writing where precision is key. Alternatives like "at a minute level" or "at the cellular level" can be used for subtle variations in meaning. Keep in mind to avoid overuse to maintain writing clarity and engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at a minute level

Focuses on the extremely small size, emphasizing the level of detail observed.

at a granular level

Highlights the detail and specificity of the observation, similar to examining grains.

at the cellular level

Specifies that the observation occurs at the level of individual cells.

at the molecular level

Indicates observation at the level of molecules, which is even smaller than cells.

in micro detail

Shortens the expression while keeping the same meaning.

in minute detail

Replaces "microscopic" with "minute" to convey extreme detail.

on a fine scale

Substitutes "microscopic" with "fine" to suggest precision.

on a subatomic scale

Refers to an even smaller scale than microscopic, dealing with particles within atoms.

in ultrastructure

Describes the detailed structure of a cell or tissue as seen with an electron microscope.

at nanoscale

Indicates measurements and observations at the level of nanometers.

FAQs

What does "on a microscopic scale" mean?

The phrase "on a microscopic scale" refers to observing or analyzing something at a level so small that it requires a microscope to see the details. It's often used in science and technology to describe events or structures at the cellular or molecular level.

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

You can use "on a microscopic scale" to describe processes or structures that are best understood through microscopic observation. For example, "The changes in the material's structure were only visible "on a microscopic scale" after the experiment."

What are some alternatives to saying "on a microscopic scale"?

Alternatives include phrases like "at a minute level", "at the cellular level", or "at the molecular level", depending on the specific context. Using "at a granular level" can also convey a similar meaning, emphasizing the detail and specificity of the observation.

Is "on a microscopic scale" formal or informal?

The phrase "on a microscopic scale" is generally considered formal and suitable for academic, scientific, and technical writing. While understandable in informal contexts, there might be simpler, more conversational alternatives depending on the audience.