painstaking thoroughness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "painstaking thoroughness" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a meticulous and careful approach to a task or process, emphasizing the attention to detail involved. Example: "The researcher approached the project with painstaking thoroughness, ensuring that every detail was meticulously documented."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

With painstaking thoroughness, he observed five generations of progeny of tailless parents, 901 mice in all.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Theodore B. Olson, one of the lawyers who has argued the high-profile case against California's same-sex marriage prohibition, praised the Iowa justices' ruling for its painstaking thoroughness.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Full marks for thoroughness.

The New York Times - Sports

He prized thoroughness.

The Economist

"Diplomacy is painstaking work.

The Guardian

But progress is painstaking.

The Economist

The process was painstaking.

The New York Times

It is careful, painstaking work".

Independent

The process entailed painstaking relationships.

The New York Times - Arts

"This has been very painstaking".

The New York Times

It is a painstaking process.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance the impact of "painstaking thoroughness", provide specific examples of the detailed steps or considerations taken. This helps to underscore the depth of the effort.

Common error

Avoid using "painstaking thoroughness" when the effort is merely diligent or standard. Reserve it for situations that genuinely involve exceptional attention to detail and exhaustive work.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "painstaking thoroughness" functions as a descriptor, emphasizing the degree of care, effort, and detail involved in a process or activity. Ludwig AI confirms this usage, providing examples from reputable sources that highlight meticulous and exhaustive approaches.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

50%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "painstaking thoroughness" describes a meticulous and exhaustive approach characterized by significant care and attention to detail. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is grammatically correct and appears in reputable sources like The New York Times and Encyclopedia Britannica. While its frequency is relatively rare, using related phrases such as "meticulous diligence" or "extreme attention to detail" can provide nuanced alternatives. It’s important to reserve this phrase for situations where exceptional effort and meticulousness are genuinely involved.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

meticulous diligence

Focuses more on the consistent and dedicated effort involved.

extreme attention to detail

Emphasizes the fine-grained focus and precision applied.

scrupulous exactitude

Highlights the moral commitment to accuracy and precision.

conscientious precision

Stresses the careful and thoughtful approach to accuracy.

exhaustive investigation

Highlights that the process involves an effort to consider all possible details.

rigorous examination

Focuses on the strict and methodical nature of the analysis.

minute inspection

Emphasizes the detailed and close scrutiny involved.

thorough investigation

Focuses on the comprehensive and in-depth nature of the inquiry.

methodical approach

Highlights the structured and systematic nature of the process.

careful attention

Focuses on attentiveness and mindfulness.

FAQs

What does "painstaking thoroughness" mean?

The phrase "painstaking thoroughness" refers to an approach characterized by extreme care, attention to detail, and exhaustiveness. It suggests a meticulous effort to ensure accuracy and completeness.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "painstaking thoroughness"?

Use "painstaking thoroughness" to describe situations requiring exceptional attention to detail and exhaustive effort, such as scientific research, legal investigations, or complex problem-solving. It's applicable when standard diligence isn't sufficient.

What are some alternatives to "painstaking thoroughness"?

Alternatives include "meticulous diligence", "extreme attention to detail", or "scrupulous exactitude". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How does "painstaking thoroughness" differ from "thoroughness"?

"Thoroughness" implies completeness and attention to detail, while "painstaking thoroughness" emphasizes the effort, care, and meticulousness involved in achieving that completeness. The latter highlights the demanding nature of the process.