that outlines

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that outlines" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to something that describes or summarizes key points or features. For example, "The report includes a section that outlines the main findings." Alternative expressions include "that describes" and "that summarizes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

She also leaves them with a face chart that outlines the application process step by step.

The New York Times

A Facebook document that outlines the company's banning guidelines was recently unearthed by Gawker.

The New Yorker

She's usually a bottle blonde, stuffed into a tight sweater that outlines her oddly conical breasts.

The New York Times

A lighting fixture that outlines the ceiling was designed by the couple's daughter, Lisa.

The New York Times

Fronds of tropical plants interrupt a black banquette that outlines the room.

The New York Times

He called it a "very constructive document that outlines a promising direction".

The New York Times

Create a timeline that outlines the course of events surrounding the situation.

The New York Times

It is a thorough piece of work that outlines a pathway to a more responsive and sustainable university sector.

The Guardian - Opinion

You'll land on a splash page that outlines the purpose of the guide.

TechCrunch

Have a properly executed lease that outlines the entire agreement, Klingman advises.

Forbes

Legal: Be sure to have a properly executed lease that outlines the agreement in its entirety.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that outlines", ensure the subject clearly presents a structured overview, avoiding excessive detail.

Common error

While "that outlines" is widely applicable, it can sound overly formal in casual writing. Consider simpler alternatives like "that shows" or "that explains" for a more natural tone in informal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that outlines" functions as a relative clause, modifying a noun by providing further information about it. It introduces a description or summary of the noun, as demonstrated in numerous examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

30%

Wiki

22%

Less common in

Formal & Business

12%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that outlines" is a versatile relative clause used to introduce a description or summary of a noun. As Ludwig highlights, its function is to provide a structured overview, making it suitable for neutral to professional contexts. While very common across various sources, consider simpler alternatives in informal writing. The phrase is grammatically sound and readily understood, offering a reliable way to present summarized information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that describes

Focuses on providing details, rather than a summary or structure.

that details

Emphasizes a thorough and comprehensive account.

that summarizes

Highlights the main points in a concise manner.

that specifies

Indicates a precise and explicit statement of requirements or conditions.

that delineates

Suggests marking the boundaries or limits of something.

that indicates

Focuses on pointing out or showing something.

that presents

Emphasizes the act of displaying or offering something for consideration.

that illustrates

Implies providing a visual or concrete example.

that sketches

Suggests a brief and general description.

that encapsulates

Implies containing or expressing the essential information in a concise form.

FAQs

How can I use "that outlines" in a sentence?

Use "that outlines" to introduce a clause that provides a summary or a structured description of something. For example, "The report includes a section "that outlines" the main findings".

What are some alternatives to "that outlines"?

You can use alternatives such as "that describes", "that details", or "that summarizes" depending on the context.

Is "that outlines" formal or informal?

"That outlines" is suitable for both formal and neutral contexts, but it may sound slightly formal in very casual situations. Consider using simpler alternatives if informality is desired.

What's the difference between "that outlines" and "that describes"?

"That outlines" suggests a structured overview or summary, while "that describes" implies providing more comprehensive details. The choice depends on whether you want to give a general overview or a detailed account.