painstaking study

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "painstaking study" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a thorough and meticulous examination or analysis of a subject or topic. Example: "The researcher conducted a painstaking study of the effects of climate change on local ecosystems."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

The decisions of the selection committee are arrived at after months of painstaking study.

The New York Times - Sports

He learned the craft of shoemaking by painstaking study in the best manufacturing studios.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Whatever you call it, his painstaking study of Sondheim's words backfired.

The New York Times - Magazine

Such steps are uncovered through painstaking study of genes (genomics), the proteins that they encode (proteomics), and the larger biological pathways in which they act.

Britannica

Its importance was realised only in the early 1990s when Yorkshire-born textile historian Dr Gillian Vogelsang-Eastwood began her painstaking study of the young king's wardrobe.

The Guardian

In a painstaking study of the bracteate, a type of ancient pendant found in northern Europe, he charted a variety of morphological categories, such as insignia and size.

Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

He made painstaking studies in drawing of human requirements and functions, balancing a beautiful appearance with a fulfillment of purpose.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Edward L. Hannan, a State University of New York health policy expert, said in an accompanying editorial that the RAND study underlined "a compelling need to engage in painstaking studies of how treatment decisions are made".

The New York Times

Wrap has tentatively calculated, after painstaking studies, that a whopping 5m tonnes of food are wasted annually by consumers alone: that is, more than a quarter of all food we buy goes into the bin.

The Guardian

Or read the painstaking studies that come out of the Academy of Management: they show that even companies that are having a hard time are better off sticking with an insider.

The Economist

After years of painstaking studies, millions of dollars and one failed federal application for nighttime flight restrictions, Bob Hope Airport officials are turning to Congress.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "painstaking study", ensure the context clearly reflects the effort and detail involved in the examination or analysis. For instance, "The scientist's painstaking study revealed new insights into the disease."

Common error

Avoid using "painstaking study" in overly casual or informal contexts, as it may sound overly formal or pretentious. Simpler phrases like "careful look" or "detailed analysis" might be more appropriate in those situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "painstaking study" functions as a noun phrase, where "painstaking" modifies the noun "study", emphasizing its thoroughness and attention to detail. This is shown by Ludwig AI, the phrase serves as a subject or object within a sentence, describing a specific type of investigation or analysis.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "painstaking study" is a valid and grammatically correct term used to describe thorough and meticulous analysis. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, particularly in formal contexts such as news, encyclopedias, and scientific writing. While not exceedingly common, it effectively conveys the dedication and detail involved in a given examination. Alternatives like "careful analysis" or "detailed examination" may suit less formal settings. Remember, as our writing guidance suggests, consider your audience and context before utilizing this expression, opting for simpler terms in informal situations. The linguistic analysis reveals a formal register, emphasizing the importance of appropriate usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

thorough investigation

Replaces "study" with "investigation", implying a more formal and systematic inquiry.

careful analysis

Focuses on the detailed examination aspect, replacing "study" with "analysis" and "painstaking" with "careful".

detailed examination

Highlights the level of detail involved, swapping "study" for "examination" and emphasizing the meticulous nature.

meticulous research

Emphasizes the rigor and precision of the research process, replacing "study" with "research" and "painstaking" with "meticulous".

diligent inquiry

Stresses the persistent and dedicated nature of the investigation, substituting "study" with "inquiry" and focusing on the effort involved.

in-depth analysis

Focuses on the depth and comprehensiveness of the analysis, offering a slightly less formal tone.

exhaustive review

Highlights the completeness and thoroughness of the review process.

rigorous examination

Emphasizes the strictness and thoroughness of the examination.

thorough exploration

Highlights the comprehensive nature of the exploration, focusing on uncovering all aspects of the subject.

comprehensive assessment

Emphasizes the broad scope of the assessment, covering all relevant factors and aspects.

FAQs

What does "painstaking study" mean?

A "painstaking study" refers to a thorough and meticulous examination or analysis, often involving considerable effort and attention to detail.

How can I use "painstaking study" in a sentence?

You can use "painstaking study" to describe research, analysis, or examination processes that are conducted with great care and thoroughness. For example: "The researcher's painstaking study of the data revealed significant patterns."

What are some alternatives to "painstaking study"?

Some alternatives to "painstaking study" include "careful analysis", "thorough investigation", or "detailed examination", depending on the specific context.

Is "painstaking study" formal or informal?

"Painstaking study" is generally considered a more formal phrase. In informal contexts, simpler alternatives might be more appropriate.