the fine points

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the fine points" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to the small details or nuances of a subject, often in a context where precision is important. Example: "When discussing the contract, we need to pay attention to the fine points to avoid any misunderstandings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But they don't understand the fine points.

The New York Times

I was a detail person worrying about the fine points.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

His mother inquired about the fine points of Helen's feet.

The New Yorker

They're simpatico right down to the fine points.

The New York Times - Arts

But the fine points of his performance won me over.

The New York Times - Arts

But there were some disagreements on the fine points.

The New York Times

Reuners learn the fine points of improv from the Lobster Club.

Princeton University

The fine points of a treaty would be worked out after that.

The New York Times

Without getting into the fine points of health policy, Democrats are unleashing more ads.

The New York Times

Esquire: David Wondrich goes granular on the fine points of selecting and drinking sake.

The New York Times

Business became more lucrative as he learned the fine points of the trade.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing complex topics, use "the fine points" to signal that you are about to delve into specific, often subtle, details that require careful consideration.

Common error

Avoid getting lost in "the fine points" to the detriment of understanding the overall concept. Ensure the details support and clarify the main idea, rather than obscuring it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the fine points" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. As seen in Ludwig, it refers to the specific, often subtle, details of a subject.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

22%

Science

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the fine points" is a commonly used noun phrase that denotes specific, often subtle, details. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage across diverse contexts, predominantly in News & Media and Academia. The phrase serves to emphasize the importance of understanding these details, with semantically related alternatives including "the finer details" and "the nuances". When writing, focus on integrating these details to enhance overall understanding, while avoiding getting lost in them. Therefore, "the fine points" remains a valuable asset in precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the finer points

Focuses on sophisticated or subtle details.

the finer details

Focuses on the individual, often subtle, aspects of something.

the precise details

Focuses on exact and accurate information.

the nuances

Emphasizes the subtle differences or distinctions.

the specifics

Highlights particular, definite aspects or details.

the intricacies

Refers to complex or elaborate details.

the minutiae

Highlights the very small or trivial details.

the technicalities

Refers to the formal details or rules.

the delicate aspects

Emphasizes the sensitive or subtle features.

the subtle elements

Highlights the understated or indirect components.

FAQs

How can I use "the fine points" in a sentence?

You can use "the fine points" to refer to specific details or nuances, such as: "The agreement hinges on understanding "the fine points" of the contract."

What are some alternatives to using "the fine points"?

Alternatives include "the details", "the nuances", or "the specifics" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "the fine points"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize the importance of understanding the smaller, often subtle, aspects of a subject.

What is the difference between "the fine points" and "the main points"?

"The fine points" refers to the detailed aspects, while "the main points" refers to the most important or essential aspects.