spells out precisely

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "spells out precisely" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to indicate that something is explained in a clear and detailed manner. Example: "The report spells out precisely the steps we need to take to improve our sales strategy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The newly published multimedia document spells out precisely how the recordings contradicted the accounts of the senior officials.

The New York Times

It's an undercurrent in a wave of revulsion, but it spells out precisely why two professionals of vast experience – in the industry that rightly chased Ron Atkinson out of town – had no misgivings about talking that way while miked up and preparing for broadcast.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

That will put pressure on the Tories to spell out precisely what they will do.

The Economist

But patent legislation, like other legislation and indeed like all compositions, impliedly contains presuppositions which need not be spelled out precisely because they are taken for granted.

Cornell University

Mr Bush has rejected the term; instead, he describes China as a "strategic competitor".More aggressive attitudesThe president has yet to spell out precisely what that phrase means.

The Economist

And if your investor is promising expertise and help the way the sharks do, make sure they spell out precisely what they mean before you sign.

The New York Times

Can you spell out precisely what he/you have done since early 2010 that would explain the £2k a month fee you mentioned as his researcher on this topic?

The Guardian

As has been widely lamented, all three major parties have failed to spell out precisely where they would cut spending and increase taxes in the coming fiscal retrenchment.

The New Yorker

Aware of the independence of the Bank of England, Cable is reluctant to spell out precisely what kind of quantitative easing should take place, or its size or timing.

The Guardian

First, reassure voters that the party is serious about bringing down the deficit and ensuring UK debt levels are sustainable, with every Shadow Cabinet member spelling out precisely the cuts to come.

Independent

The Treasury Department needs to spell out precisely what information it wants in order to conduct a thorough legal and financial audit, one that will provide a clean bill of health.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "spells out precisely" when you want to emphasize that something is explained in a clear, detailed, and unambiguous way. It's suitable for formal writing where clarity is crucial.

Common error

Avoid using "spells out precisely" in informal conversations or casual writing. It can sound overly formal or stilted in those settings. Opt for simpler alternatives like "explains clearly" or "makes clear".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spells out precisely" functions as a verb phrase that emphasizes the thoroughness and clarity of an explanation or instruction. It indicates that something is detailed in a manner that leaves no room for ambiguity. Ludwig confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "spells out precisely" is a phrase used to describe something that is explained in a clear, detailed, and unambiguous way. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and primarily found in News & Media and Academic contexts, making it suitable for formal communications. While it conveys certainty and ensures understanding, it's advisable to use simpler alternatives in informal settings. Keep in mind that while correct, alternatives like "specifies exactly", "details thoroughly", or "clearly articulates" can provide a more nuance specific meaning. Although the phrase is valid, be aware of the context and potentially overuse of the expression, which is not frequent, as identified by Ludwig.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

specifies exactly

Focuses on being exact and specific in the detailing.

details thoroughly

Emphasizes the completeness and depth of the explanation.

clearly articulates

Highlights the clarity and expressiveness of the explanation.

defines explicitly

Stresses the clarity and lack of ambiguity in the definition.

lays out clearly

Suggests a structured and easy-to-understand presentation.

elucidates in detail

Emphasizes the act of making something clear and understandable with extensive information.

expresses definitively

Highlights the conclusive and authoritative nature of the statement.

states unambiguously

Focuses on the lack of any possible misunderstanding in the statement.

delineates accurately

Emphasizes the precision and correctness of the description.

identifies specifically

Highlights the act of pointing out particular details.

FAQs

What does "spells out precisely" mean?

The phrase "spells out precisely" means to explain something in a very clear, detailed, and exact manner, leaving no room for ambiguity or misunderstanding.

How can I use "spells out precisely" in a sentence?

You can use "spells out precisely" to emphasize the clarity and detail of an explanation. For example: "The contract "spells out precisely" the responsibilities of each party involved."

What are some alternatives to "spells out precisely"?

Some alternatives to "spells out precisely" include phrases like "specifies exactly", "details thoroughly", or "clearly articulates". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "spells out precisely" formal or informal language?

"Spells out precisely" leans towards formal language. In informal contexts, simpler alternatives like "explains clearly" or "makes clear" might be more appropriate.