please describe

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "please describe" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when requesting someone to provide details or explanations about a specific topic or subject. Example: "In your report, please describe the methodology you used for your research."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

If so, please describe the specific occurrence".

The New York Times

If so, please describe these violations.

The Guardian

Please describe personal incidents, along with general observations.

The New York Times

Q Please describe what is at issue with this device.

The New York Times

If so, please describe the level of peer review.

The New York Times

Please describe.

Urban Rail Transit

Please describe it.

Injury Epidemiology

If other, please describe.

International Journal of Emergency Medicine

Please describe your return processes.

Business Research

Please describe your OC network.

Business Research

If so, please describe these programs.

International Journal of Emergency Medicine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "please describe" when you need a detailed account of something. For a less detailed request, consider using "please explain" or "please outline".

Common error

Avoid using "please describe" without specifying what you want described. Vague requests can lead to unfocused or irrelevant responses. Be specific about the subject of the description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "please describe" functions as a request for information, specifically asking the recipient to provide a detailed account or explanation of something. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is common and accepted in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

26%

Formal & Business

24%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "please describe" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase for requesting detailed explanations. As verified by Ludwig, it's versatile across scientific, news, and business contexts. The phrase functions primarily to elicit comprehensive accounts, and its formality ranges from neutral to professional. To enhance clarity, always specify the subject of the description. Consider "could you elaborate" or "can you explain" as alternatives depending on the specific need.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

could you elaborate

This phrase asks for more detail on something already mentioned, implying a need for further explanation.

can you explain

A general request for clarification or to make something understandable.

please detail

Similar to "please describe" but emphasizes providing specific facts or information.

can you give details

Asks for specific information about something.

please specify

Requests a precise and clear statement of particular information.

tell me more about

Invites a more extended explanation or narrative.

please outline

Asks for a summary of the main points or features of something.

please illustrate

Requests an example or visual representation to clarify a point.

please clarify

A request to make something clearer or less ambiguous.

walk me through

Implies a step-by-step explanation or demonstration is needed.

FAQs

What can I use instead of "please describe"?

You can use alternatives like "could you elaborate", "can you explain", or "please detail" depending on the context.

How do I use "please describe" in a sentence?

You can use "please describe" to ask for a detailed explanation or account of something. For example, "Please describe the methodology you used for your research" or "Please describe your experience with the new software".

What is the difference between "please describe" and "please explain"?

"Please describe" typically asks for a more detailed and comprehensive account, focusing on sensory details and characteristics. "Please explain", on the other hand, seeks to clarify understanding by providing reasons and causes. Consider using "please explain" if you want the reasons behind an action.

Is it always necessary to use "please" with "describe"?

While not always grammatically necessary, including "please" makes the request more polite and courteous, especially in formal or professional settings. Omitting "please" can sound abrupt or demanding.