outline that

USAGE SUMMARY

"outline that" is correct and usable in written English, and can be used to introduce a statement or request to outline something.
For example, "Please outline that in more detail."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Straightforward in outline, that is – not in design.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Regarding 9/11, I outline that sequence of events in "The Black Banners," and it's tragic.

The New Yorker

That big, wavey quiff creates an outline that is almost the width of her shoulders.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is this shape, vague in its outline, that became "the object".

The New York Times

Ms. Biederman converts map imagery into a schematic outline that reveals the simple elegance of highway and street systems.

The New York Times

It is a family history in outline that retains some of the disorientation endemic to Mr. Nauman's corridors.

The New York Times - Arts

This is the domain of the caricaturist, whose sure and slashing strokes have a purity of outline that feels inevitable.

The New Yorker

Twitter analysts spent all day Tuesday parsing just the 17-page outline that was unveiled ahead of the actual bill.

The New York Times

Dawkins's case against religion follows an outline that goes back to Bertrand Russell's classic 1927 essay "Why I Am Not a Christian".

The New York Times - Books

He quickly generated a script outline that was intended to yield two three-hour features: one about Caesar and Cleopatra, the other about Antony and Cleopatra.

The New Yorker

I'd much rather work from a 25-page outline that doesn't narrow down the possibilities or lock you into a self-serving filming schedule.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "outline that" to introduce a concise summary or overview of a topic. This helps to set expectations for the level of detail that will follow.

Common error

Avoid using "outline that" in very informal conversations or casual writing. Simpler alternatives like "explain" or "describe" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "outline that" functions as a verb phrase introducing a statement or explanation. It serves to indicate that the speaker or writer will provide a summary or a general overview of a particular topic. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

31%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "outline that" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to introduce a summary or an overview of a topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and formal writing. While it's versatile, avoid overusing it in very informal settings where simpler alternatives might be more appropriate. The authoritative sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian, frequently employ this phrase, reflecting its acceptance in professional communication. When using "outline that", ensure that you are providing a structured and concise overview to set the stage for further details.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

summarize that

Focuses on providing a concise summary instead of a detailed plan.

detail that

Emphasizes providing specific details, adding depth to the explanation.

describe that

Highlights the act of giving a descriptive account of something.

present that

Suggests a formal presentation or introduction of the information.

explain that

Focuses on making something clear and understandable.

specify that

Highlights the act of being precise and clear about certain aspects.

indicate that

Suggests pointing out or showing something, often subtly.

show that

Emphasizes visually or demonstrably presenting information.

delineate that

Implies marking the boundaries or limits of something clearly.

demarcate that

Implies clearly setting the boundaries or limits of something.

FAQs

How can I use "outline that" in a sentence?

You can use "outline that" to introduce a summary or overview of a topic. For example, "Let me "outline that" for you before we proceed with the details."

What are some alternatives to "outline that"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "summarize that", "describe that", or "explain that".

When is it appropriate to use "outline that" in writing?

"Outline that" is suitable for formal writing, reports, and presentations where a clear and structured overview is required. It may be less appropriate in casual conversation.

Is there a difference between "outline that" and "explain that"?

"Outline that" implies a more structured and concise overview, whereas "explain that" suggests a more detailed and comprehensive explanation. The choice depends on the desired level of depth.