round out

USAGE SUMMARY

"round out" is an appropriate phrase that can be used in written English.
It is usually used to mean "to add the finishing touches to or to complete something" or "to make something more complete or balanced." For example: I need to round out my application materials with a few more required forms.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Several paellas round out the menu.

The New York Times - Food

to round out this solid theme.

The New York Times

Mongolian melodies will round out the festival.

The New York Times - Arts

Chocolates and cakes round out the inventory.

The New York Times

Panini and salads round out the menu.

The New York Times - Food

Gershwin favorites round out the recital.

The New York Times

It's the perfect accessory to round out my fall selection.

The New York Times

Panini, antipasti and salads round out the menu.

The New York Times

We would like to round out the picture.

The New Yorker

Export: Opus Jazz," will round out the evening.

The New Yorker

Slight sweetness might even round out the leaner wines.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "round out" to indicate the addition of final elements to complete a plan, menu, or collection. For example, "Desserts round out the menu."

Common error

Avoid using "round out" when you simply mean to 'add' without the implication of completing or finalizing something. "Add details" might be more appropriate if the purpose is not to finalize.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "round out" primarily functions as a transitive verb, requiring an object to complete its meaning. It signifies the act of bringing something to a state of completion or fullness. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its versatile usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

26%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

2%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "round out" is a versatile and frequently used expression that signifies completion or enhancement, typically through the addition of final elements. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides numerous examples of its usage across diverse contexts, from news and media to instructional wikis. While generally neutral in tone, it's crucial to consider the specific context to ensure its appropriate application. Remember to use "round out" when you truly intend to convey completion, as opposed to a simple addition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complete

Focuses on bringing something to a finished state.

supplement

Highlights the addition of something extra to improve or enhance.

flesh out

Emphasizes adding details to make something more substantial.

fill in

Stresses providing what is missing or incomplete.

amplify

Indicates expanding or increasing something already present.

augment

Implies adding to something to improve or increase its value.

balance

Highlights achieving equilibrium or completeness through addition.

perfect

Focuses on achieving flawlessness or the highest standard.

finalize

Indicates the last stage of completion, making something ready.

polish

Emphasizes refining something to improve its appearance or quality.

FAQs

How can I use "round out" in a sentence?

You can use "round out" to describe the act of completing something by adding final details, such as, "The new features will "round out" the software package."

What does "round out" mean?

"Round out" typically means to complete or enhance something, often by adding what is missing or necessary for completion. It can also mean to make something plumper or more rounded.

What are some alternatives to "round out"?

You can use alternatives like "complete", "supplement", or "flesh out" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "round out" formal or informal?

"Round out" is generally considered a neutral phrase and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. The appropriateness depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and the overall tone of the writing.