sticking to the script

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sticking to the script" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to following a predetermined plan or set of instructions without deviation. Example: "During the presentation, the speaker was careful about sticking to the script to ensure all key points were covered."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Film

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

On US productions it's all about nailing lines, hitting beats, sticking to the script, whereas Iannucci would first shoot scenes as scripted, then re-shoot them immediately afterwards, this time with the actors improvising.

The Guardian - Film

Dinty angrily insists on sticking to the script.

The New York Times

Those responsible are sticking to the script of the perpetrators.

The Guardian - Opinion

Tomic press conferences are rarely dull, with Thursday's version sticking to the script.

The New York Times

For now, though, they are sticking to the script that doomed them last September.

The New York Times - Sports

When it comes to local specialties, connoisseurs are usually strict about sticking to the script.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

You have to stick to the script.

The New York Times

The rest have stuck to the script.

The Guardian - Opinion

Bash! Always stick to the script.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

In short, he stuck to the script.

The New York Times - Style

The actress Rinko Kikuchi prefers to stick to the script.

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In creative endeavors like filmmaking or theater, consider when deviating from the script might enhance the final product versus when it's crucial to "stick to the script" to maintain narrative integrity.

Common error

Avoid using "sticking to the script" as an excuse to stifle creativity or ignore necessary adjustments. While discipline is important, blindly following a script without considering changing circumstances can lead to suboptimal outcomes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sticking to the script" functions as a verbal phrase indicating adherence to a pre-determined plan or dialogue. It is commonly used in contexts where predictability and conformity are emphasized, as seen in Ludwig's examples across news, film, and sports.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Film

7%

Sports

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sticking to the script" is a common phrase used to describe adhering to a pre-planned course of action, message, or dialogue. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across various domains, including news, film, and sports. While the phrase itself is neutral, it can be used positively to suggest reliability and consistency, or negatively to imply a lack of creativity or adaptability. Understanding the context is essential when interpreting the use of this phrase. Given its common usage and clear meaning, writers can confidently employ "sticking to the script" when describing the act of following a prescribed plan.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

adhering to the plan

Focuses on the act of following a specific plan or strategy without deviation.

not deviating from the plan

Emphasizes the avoidance of any departure from the pre-determined plan.

following the established procedure

Emphasizes the importance of complying with a set of rules or protocols.

staying within the guidelines

Highlights the act of remaining within the boundaries set by a set of rules.

executing as planned

Highlights the completion of tasks exactly as they were originally intended.

keeping to the agenda

Specifically refers to following a pre-set meeting agenda.

observing the protocol

Focuses on adhering to formal or official procedures.

following the roadmap

Implies adhering to a strategic visual plan to achieve a goal.

maintaining the course

Implies a steady and persistent adherence to a chosen path or plan.

remaining faithful to the text

Highlights the act of staying true to the original wording or content.

FAQs

How can I use "sticking to the script" in a sentence?

You can use "sticking to the script" to describe adhering to a pre-planned course of action, like: "The politician was accused of simply "sticking to the script" during the debate and not addressing the real issues".

What does it mean to say someone is "sticking to the script"?

When someone is "sticking to the script", it generally means they are following a pre-arranged plan or message without deviation, often implying a lack of originality or adaptability.

What are some alternatives to saying "sticking to the script"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "adhering to the plan", "following the established procedure", or "staying within the guidelines".

In what situations is it best to "stick to the script"?

It's often best to "stick to the script" in situations where consistency and accuracy are paramount, such as delivering important information or following safety protocols. However, flexibility may be necessary when unexpected issues arise.