sketchy list

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sketchy list" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a list that is incomplete, vague, or lacking in detail. Example: "I received a sketchy list of tasks for the project, and I need more information to proceed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

This is but a partial list, but even this sketchy list makes clear that Watsuji is calling attention to the many ways in which our environment, taken in the broad sense, shapes who we are from birth to death.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The loud music is wrong for the dining room, too, and the sketchy wine list nowhere near the level of the food.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The items in Olliff's car certainly sound sketchy when police list them out: bolt cutters and wire cutters; duffel bags full of sweatpants, sweatshirts, gloves, and ski masks; spray paint; concrete stain; laptop computers; bear spray; head lamps; latex gloves; walkie-talkies; rags; bleach.

Vice

Dr. Rudes had to apply techniques of historical linguistics to rebuilding a language from these sketchy, unreliable word lists.

The New York Times - Science

Vice Sergeant Misch had it on her short list of sketchy yards to watch.

Vice

WINE LIST A somewhat sketchy French and American list with a sprinkling of Spanish and Italian selections, most priced at $30 or more a bottle.

The New York Times

In fact, Ritchie isn't a terribly ambitious rock or country songwriter: his lyrics are often sketchy or gestural, full of lists ("Monday's just a bitch / Tuesday's such a bother / Wednesday's like watching dead flowers grow") and references to other singers and songs.

The New Yorker

Soccer hooligans, sketchy streetpeople, and a C-list celebrities causing trouble became associated with Burberry.

TechCrunch

So this sketchy and selective bibliography--this list of some of the books I have around the house now--is really an autobiography.

The New Yorker

Directed by Rob Reiner from a sketchy screenplay by Justin Zackham, "The Bucket List" fails its stars in fundamental ways.

The New York Times

Though his notes are sketchy and his bibliography mystifyingly brief (listing only three books not written by members of the Saroyan family), he has obvious feeling for his subject.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "sketchy list" with a more precise term like "incomplete list" or "unverified list" if the specific issue is known. This adds clarity and credibility.

Common error

While "sketchy list" is acceptable, it can sound informal. In professional or academic contexts, consider stronger alternatives such as "unsubstantiated list" or "incomplete inventory" to maintain a more authoritative tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sketchy list" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "sketchy" modifies the noun "list". It's used to describe a list that is incomplete, unreliable, or questionable. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sketchy list" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that describes a list lacking in completeness, reliability, or detail. According to Ludwig AI, its use is acceptable in written English. While generally neutral to informal in register, it appears most frequently in news and media contexts, as well as scientific publications. For formal or professional writing, more precise alternatives such as "incomplete list" or "unverified data" may be more appropriate. Remember to provide context or specifics when describing a "sketchy list" to enhance clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

incomplete list

Indicates the list is not fully detailed or finished.

unreliable list

Suggests the information on the list cannot be trusted.

questionable list

Implies the validity or accuracy of the list is in doubt.

dubious list

Highlights the uncertainty and potential deceptiveness of the list.

vague list

Emphasizes the lack of clarity and precision in the list.

flawed list

Highlights the presence of errors or inaccuracies within the list.

patchy list

Indicates that the list is uneven or inconsistent in its coverage.

fragmentary list

Suggests the list is composed of disconnected or incomplete parts.

superficial list

Indicates that the list lacks depth and detailed information.

preliminary list

Suggests that the list is an early version and subject to change.

FAQs

What does "sketchy list" mean?

A "sketchy list" refers to a list that is incomplete, unreliable, or lacks sufficient detail. It suggests that the information presented may not be entirely trustworthy or comprehensive.

How can I use "sketchy list" in a sentence?

You can use "sketchy list" to describe a situation where a list is not fully developed or trustworthy. For example: "The police had a "sketchy list" of possible suspects based on limited evidence."

What are some alternatives to "sketchy list"?

Alternatives to "sketchy list" include "incomplete list", "unreliable list", "questionable list", or "dubious list", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "sketchy list" appropriate for formal writing?

While understandable, "sketchy list" may be considered informal. In formal writing, consider using more precise and professional alternatives such as "preliminary list", "unverified data", or "incomplete inventory".