on detail

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on detail" is not grammatically correct. It is not a phrase that can be used in written English. You can use the phrase "in detail" to describe something when you are giving a detailed account or description about it. For example, "She described the incident in detail, covering every aspect of the event."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

And they were the ones who were meant to be meticulous on detail.

The Guardian - Sport

Davies focused on detail, narrative and character; Motson often commentated by numbers in more than one sense.

The Guardian - Sport

It's short on detail.

The New York Times

But he was vague on detail.

The Economist

So far, he is short on detail.

The Economist

But it sometimes skimps on detail.

The New York Times - Books

Lots of cuts were short on detail.

The Economist

And their programmes aren't clear; really short on detail.

The Guardian

Make it more extreme.' " The script doesn't stint on detail.

The New Yorker

Labour's shadow Jim Murphy response was light on detail too.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

But it does so with a generous dose of humor, adept storytelling and spot-on detail.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "in detail" instead of "on detail" for grammatically correct and clear communication. For example, say "The report analyzes the data in detail" rather than "on detail".

Common error

Avoid using "on detail" due to its grammatical incorrectness. Remember that while "on" can indicate a topic, "in" is appropriate when describing the level of thoroughness or specificity. Always opt for "in detail" to ensure clarity and correctness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on detail" is generally intended to function as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or adjective to indicate the extent to which something is detailed or specific. However, Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "in detail".

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "on detail" appears in various sources, it is generally considered grammatically incorrect. Ludwig AI identifies it as non-standard usage, recommending the use of "in detail" instead. The intended meaning revolves around specifying the level of thoroughness or specificity. Given its grammatical issues, and the existence of a direct and correct replacement (in detail), it is best to avoid "on detail" in favor of more standard and accepted phrasing. Usage of the grammatically incorrect phrase is uncommon, with most sources being News & Media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in detail

This is the grammatically correct and most directly interchangeable alternative, focusing on providing specific information.

regarding details

This option shifts the focus to discussing or referencing specific details.

concerning details

Similar to "regarding details", this highlights the aspect of relevance or pertinence to details.

with attention to detail

This emphasizes the act of carefully considering and managing details.

focused on the specifics

This stresses the importance of concentrating on precise and particular aspects.

detailed

A more concise adjective form to describe something that includes many details.

thorough

This implies a complete and comprehensive examination of all aspects, including details.

elaborate

This suggests a high level of detail and complexity.

meticulous about details

This describes someone extremely careful and precise, especially with minor details.

precise regarding details

This highlights the accuracy and exactness in dealing with details.

FAQs

How to use "in detail" instead of "on detail"?

Replace "on detail" with "in detail" to ensure grammatical correctness. For example, instead of saying "The plan is short on detail", say "The plan is short in detail".

What are some alternatives to "on detail"?

Instead of "on detail", consider using alternatives such as "in detail", "regarding details", or "concerning details" depending on the context.

Which is correct: "on detail" or "in detail"?

"In detail" is the grammatically correct phrase to use. "On detail" is generally considered incorrect in standard English.

What’s the difference between "on detail" and "in detail"?

"On detail" is not a recognized or grammatically correct phrase. Use "in detail" to properly express that something is being discussed or examined thoroughly.