puts flesh on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "puts flesh on" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to mean providing more detail or substance to an idea or concept. Example: "The author puts flesh on the theory by including real-life examples and case studies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

For one thing, it puts flesh on St. Paul's words that all Christians are to bear the cross of Christ".

The New Yorker

This book puts flesh on that idea.

The Economist

Information which puts flesh on such data is quite another.

The Guardian

Reading up on their working week puts flesh on the bones of your ancestors, says Loughran.

The Guardian

And this is where "sustainable development" comes in.The concept of sustainable development puts flesh on the idea that business left to its own devices is dangerous.

The Economist

The announcement of the commission on voting puts flesh on the promise Obama made in his second inaugural speech last month to fix America's broken voting system.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

The process: we talk a lot, putting flesh on the skeleton, one episode at a time.

The Guardian - Books

Nor, he implies, will they ever do so.Academic gatherings, such as a conference last year at Harvard to discuss the one-state option, have yet to put flesh on the idealists' notions.

The Economist

Connery put flesh on some of the bones, certainly.

The Guardian - Books

Two new experiments put flesh on these bones.

The Guardian - Opinion

Yet the two superb lead performers put flesh on what are essentially dueling essays.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "puts flesh on" when you want to convey that something is being made more complete or understandable through the addition of detail or context. For example, use it to describe how a detailed report fleshes out a broad policy proposal.

Common error

Avoid using "puts flesh on" too frequently in your writing. While effective, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Instead, vary your language by using synonyms such as "elaborates on" or "adds detail to" to maintain a fresh and engaging tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "puts flesh on" functions as an idiomatic expression. It typically serves as a verb phrase, adding detail or substance to something previously abstract or incomplete. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, noting that it enhances understanding by providing additional context or clarification.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Books

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The idiomatic phrase "puts flesh on" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe the act of adding detail or substance to an idea or plan. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. Predominantly found in News & Media and books, the phrase serves to clarify and enhance understanding, although in more formal settings, alternatives like "elaborates on" or "adds detail to" might be more appropriate. Remember to use this phrase judiciously to avoid repetition in your writing. By providing this detailed analysis, this comprehensive guide offers writers a complete understanding of how to effectively use the phrase in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Adds detail to

Focuses on the act of adding specific details to enhance understanding.

Elaborates on

Emphasizes a more thorough and expansive explanation.

Expounds upon

Suggests a formal and detailed presentation of a subject.

Provides substance to

Highlights the act of giving something tangible or real quality.

Gives depth to

Focuses on adding layers and complexity to an idea.

Illustrates

Uses examples or visuals to clarify and enrich an idea.

Clarifies

Simplifies and makes an idea easier to understand.

Expands on

Broadens the scope and coverage of a topic.

Augments

Implies adding to something to improve or enhance it.

Substantiates

Offers evidence or proof to support the validity of something.

FAQs

How can I use "puts flesh on" in a sentence?

You can use "puts flesh on" to describe the act of adding detail or substance to an idea. For example: "The detailed report "puts flesh on" the initial proposal, making it more viable."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "puts flesh on"?

Some alternatives to "puts flesh on" include "adds detail to", "elaborates on", or "provides substance to". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "puts flesh on" in formal writing?

Yes, "puts flesh on" can be used in formal writing, but consider your audience. While it's generally understood, alternatives like "expounds upon" or "provides substance to" may be more suitable for highly formal contexts.

What's the difference between "puts flesh on" and "fleshes out"?

"Puts flesh on" and "fleshes out" are often used interchangeably, both meaning to add detail. "Fleshes out" can sometimes imply a more complete or thorough development, while "puts flesh on" simply indicates adding substance. They are highly similar in meaning and usage.