probing for details

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "probing for details" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of seeking more information or clarification about a particular subject or situation. Example: "During the interview, the detective was probing for details about the suspect's whereabouts on the night of the crime."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Probing for details about the company's rate structure, Nolan unsettles the accountant with an outrageously false statement: "So your profit margin is 40% to 50%." Nothing like that, the accountant corrects him, and discloses a more accurate figure.

Forbes

The dietitian will review the dietary history with each participant, probing for details on portion sizes and cooking methods in order to improve data accuracy.

BMC Endocrine Disorders

Following rapport building, and upon probing for details of the delivery experience, respondents would typically qualify earlier assessments and elaborate on negative aspects of services related to childbirth.

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

The chats continued, with Lamo probing for details.

The Washington Post

Nearly a century later an adolescent probing for details from the daughter of a survivor was primly told, "Miss Molly, we do not mention this in Nantucket.

The New York Times - Books

The sudden death of his younger daughter, May, and the disappearance of his other daughter June, has scarred her husband's life, but Ann has never felt right probing for details beyond what he offered freely, which were scarce.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

The interviews were conducted by a field supervisor with extensive experience in community engagement, training on interviewer ethics, probing for detail and efficient management of the discussions.

BMC Public Health

When he probed for details, she told him not to worry about it and admonished him to stay inside.

The New Yorker

For the past two weeks, judges and lawyers in the trial of a Khmer Rouge prison chief have probed for details about the suffering of victims of a regime that caused the deaths of an estimated 1.7 million people between 1975 and 1979.

The New York Times

All of this information should be available in the faculty handbook, but you may need to probe for details about how the policies actually work.

Science Magazine

Despite legislation in countries like the United States and the United Kingdom, there are also times when candidates are probed for details about their marital status or whether they are planning to start a family soon, or they are asked other inappropriate questions.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "probing for details" in situations where you need to gather comprehensive information through questioning or investigation. Be mindful of the context and ensure that the level of inquiry is appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "probing for details" in a way that seems intrusive or overly aggressive. Adjust your approach based on the sensitivity of the subject and the relationship with the person you're questioning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "probing for details" functions as a verbal phrase that describes the action of thoroughly investigating or questioning to obtain specific information. As Ludwig AI highlights, the phrase is grammatically sound and actively used. Examples from Ludwig show its application in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

42%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "probing for details" is a grammatically sound and actively used phrase that effectively conveys the act of thoroughly seeking specific information. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is commonly found in science, news, and formal business contexts. While the phrase is suitable for various situations, it's important to consider the level of intrusiveness and adjust the approach accordingly. Alternative phrases such as "inquiring for specifics" or "digging for information" may be considered to refine the nuance. Remember to avoid overly aggressive questioning and to maintain a respectful tone when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inquiring for specifics

Emphasizes the act of asking for precise and particular information.

digging for information

Suggests a more investigative and persistent approach to gathering details.

seeking clarification

Focuses on the need to understand something more clearly.

investigating further

Implies a more formal and structured inquiry.

looking into the specifics

Highlights the examination of particular aspects.

requesting more information

A polite and direct way to ask for additional details.

exploring the nuances

Emphasizes the subtle aspects being examined.

pressing for elaboration

Indicates a persistent urging for a more detailed explanation.

pursuing further details

Implies an active and determined search for additional information.

examining the fine print

Focuses on the careful inspection of small or less obvious details.

FAQs

How can I use "probing for details" in a sentence?

You can use "probing for details" when you want to describe the process of carefully and thoroughly seeking information. For example, "The interviewer was probing for details about my previous work experience."

What are some alternatives to "probing for details"?

Alternatives include "inquiring for specifics", "digging for information", or "seeking clarification" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "probing for details" in a conversation?

It's appropriate when you need a thorough understanding of something and have the permission or need to ask direct questions. Be mindful of being respectful and not overly intrusive.

What's the difference between "probing for details" and "asking questions"?

"Probing for details" implies a more in-depth and persistent inquiry than simply "asking questions". It suggests a focused effort to uncover specific information.