to a tee

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to a tee" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an idiom that means to do something exactly. Example: She understood the instructions to a tee, and her work was perfect.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Tarr to a tee, you might say.

The New Yorker

They all sound polished to a tee.

The New York Times - Arts

That's Boston to a tee.

The Guardian - Film

It worked to a tee.

The Guardian - Sport

It fits the recovery pattern to a tee.

The Economist

In Violet, Letts has followed Joe's recipe to a tee.

The New Yorker

Politically, the film is calculated to a tee.

The New Yorker

Many are Jacobson to a tee: "joke", "jest", "jeer".

Independent

Dye's design suited him to a tee, he said.

The New York Times

It does describe Miami's outfield decor to a tee.

The Guardian - Sport

"And Tad played that role to a tee".

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the context supports the idiomatic nature of the phrase. It is best used when describing a match or precise execution.

Common error

Avoid using "to a tee" in formal or technical contexts where precise language is critical. Opt for alternatives like "exactly" or "precisely" for clarity and formality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to a tee" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to indicate the extent or manner in which an action is performed. Ludwig examples show it emphasizing how something is done perfectly or exactly.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the idiom "to a tee" is used to convey that something is done perfectly, accurately, or is ideally suited. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. With its widespread presence across various news sources and a high expert rating, this phrase adds color to descriptions, indicating precise execution or a perfect match. While highly common, it is best suited for informal and neutral contexts. Remember that while interchangeable with alternatives such as "perfectly", it holds a uniquely idiomatic feel.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

perfectly

Emphasizes the flawless nature of something matching expectations.

exactly

Highlights the accuracy and precision of the action or description.

precisely

Stresses the meticulous and accurate execution of something.

flawlessly

Indicates that something was done without any mistakes or imperfections.

to perfection

Similar meaning but emphasizes the high standard achieved.

down to the last detail

Highlights thoroughness and attention to every small aspect.

to the letter

Implies strict adherence to instructions or rules.

on the nose

Suggests accuracy and directness.

just right

Indicates that something is perfectly suitable or appropriate.

tailor-made

Suggests something specifically designed to fit perfectly.

FAQs

How can I use "to a tee" in a sentence?

You can use "to a tee" to indicate that something is done perfectly or exactly as desired. For example, "The plan worked "perfectly"," or "The description fits him "exactly"".

What does "to a tee" mean?

The phrase "to a tee" is an idiom that means something is done perfectly, accurately, or is ideally suited. It implies precision and exactness.

Which is correct, "to a tee" or "to a t"?

"To a tee" is the more common and accepted form. While "to a t" exists as an alternative spelling, "to a tee" is preferred in modern usage.

What are some alternatives to saying "to a tee"?

Alternatives to "to a tee" include "perfectly", "exactly", "precisely", "flawlessly", or "to perfection", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.