on every word

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on every word" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the importance of paying attention to each individual word in a text or speech. Example: "The speaker insisted that we should focus on every word of his message to fully understand his intentions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The young artists hang on every word.

The New York Times - Arts

"He hangs on every word.

The New York Times - Sports

The players were hanging on every word.

The New York Times - Sports

The shareholders hung on every word.

The New York Times

"They were hanging on every word".

The New York Times

His colleagues will be hanging on every word.

The Guardian

You hang on every word as he relates the story.

The New York Times - Arts

They can't bother to hang on every word.

The New Yorker

I loved it and was hooked on every word.

The Guardian

Listening to his confession, you hang on every word.

The New York Times - Arts

"I hung on every word you said, about Memphis, about it being sacred ground".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "on every word" to emphasize the importance of careful listening or reading. For example, "The students hung "on every word" the professor said, knowing the exam would be detailed."

Common error

Avoid using "on every word" when a general sense of understanding is sufficient. If the goal is to grasp the overall message rather than scrutinize each individual term, opt for a less intense expression like "listened attentively" or "paid close attention."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on every word" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb, typically emphasizing the intensity and focus of listening or reading. As Ludwig explains, it highlights the importance of paying attention to each individual word in a text or speech. The examples show instances where people are carefully absorbing information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Arts

11%

Sports

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

3%

Science

15%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on every word" is a common and grammatically sound way to express careful and intense attention to detail, as validated by Ludwig. It is frequently found in News & Media sources. While there are alternative ways to convey this meaning, such as "to the letter" or "heed every syllable", "on every word" maintains its relevance in emphasizing the importance of each element. According to Ludwig AI, the expression is versatile and suitable across various communication contexts, but ensure that the level of scrutiny implied matches the situation at hand.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

heed every syllable

Highlights the act of listening carefully to the sounds and rhythms of speech.

note every syllable

Suggests attention to detail with a focus on articulation.

to the letter

Implies strict adherence to the precise wording or instructions, moving away from active listening and towards obedience.

mark every word

Implies carefully noting or recording the words.

with close attention to each detail

Focuses on meticulous observation and consideration of all aspects.

with great care for detail

Emphasizes thoughtfulness and precision in observing and interpreting specific elements.

listen intently

Focuses solely on the act of paying close attention while listening, without necessarily emphasizing individual words.

follow closely

Stresses the act of keeping up with something, be it a speech, an argument, or a set of instructions.

with attention to detail

Highlights a general focus on accuracy and thoroughness.

taking careful note of each point

Highlights a careful and systematic consideration, not necessarily verbal.

FAQs

How can I use "on every word" in a sentence?

You can use "on every word" to emphasize that someone is paying very close attention, for example: "The audience hung "on every word" the speaker uttered."

What does it mean to hang "on every word"?

To hang "on every word" means to listen very attentively and carefully, as if each word is important and meaningful.

What can I say instead of "on every word"?

Alternatives to "on every word" include "to the letter", "with close attention to each detail", or "heed every syllable".

Is it always appropriate to focus "on every word"?

While focusing "on every word" is valuable in certain contexts, such as legal interpretations or critical analysis, it may not be necessary or efficient in everyday conversation. Sometimes understanding the overall message is sufficient.