to detail something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to detail something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to provide a thorough explanation or description of a particular subject or item. Example: "In the report, I will detail the findings of our research and the implications for future studies."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Saban lauded Belichick's attention to detail, something Lombardi said Saban was also known for, on and off the field.

The New York Times - Sports

You can add an addendum to your contract if you forgot to detail something in the contract or if the details of some part of the contract would be cumbersome to include in the contract itself.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Much of the success of the fine ensemble singing is due to the sensitive conducting of Jonathan Cohen, who in the trios and septets shows forensic skill in drawing out individual vocal lines, allowing us to hear every detail – something not always evident in the playing of the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment.

The Guardian - Music

That close attention to detail was something that was just natural to me because of the way I saw".

The New Yorker

If that, along with her attention to detail, suggests something uniquely skilful behind Diana's various dressings up and photoshoots, it is surely not an art that puts her, in terms of cultural significance considered 20 years on, much ahead of Kate Moss.

The Guardian - Opinion

"He earns the respect of the people he works with, the guys love him, and his attention to detail is something crazy.

BBC

Colors in some shots look too strong and clean, thanks to software processing intended to reduce distortion and improve detail (something all phones do to some extent).

Los Angeles Times

She paid very close attention to the details, something she had always done in her husband's life.

Wikipedia

A decision was made to keep the purchase confidential, to maximise the impact when the Stegosaurus was revealed to the public and to give us a reasonable period in which to study the skeleton in detail, something that would be exceptionally difficult after it went on display.

The Guardian

"If we want someone to re-create in minute detail something that happened three years ago, how can we help them remember?" Mr. Kleinman said such a center would be wired for video and audio recording, in part to assure that interrogators follow the rules but also to let analysts with various kinds of expertise return to the suspect's exact words and body language.

The New York Times

McFarlane admits that the secret to these products isn't really that much of a secret; they just use highly detailed photographs to make sure they accurately capture every detail, something the previous companies did not do.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing a contract or a legal document, use "to detail something" in the introduction or planning stages so the parties involved are on the same page.

Common error

Avoid using technical jargon when you "to detail something" for a general audience. Instead, opt for clear, simple language that everyone can understand to ensure your message is effectively conveyed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to detail something" functions as an infinitive verb phrase, indicating the act of providing a thorough and comprehensive account of something. It is used to express the intention or action of explaining something completely. As indicated by Ludwig AI, this is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

50%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to detail something" is grammatically sound and used to express the action of providing a thorough explanation or description. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While relatively rare, it finds applications in various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Wiki. Alternatives include "to elaborate on something" and "to specify something". When using this phrase, clarity is key, and technical jargon should be avoided for general audiences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to elaborate on something

Focuses more on expanding an existing idea or point.

to specify something

Emphasizes making something clear and precise.

to explain something in detail

Adds emphasis on the method of explanation.

to describe something thoroughly

Highlights the completeness of the description.

to outline something comprehensively

Suggests a structured and complete overview.

to delineate something precisely

Focuses on marking the boundaries or details with accuracy.

to portray something vividly

Emphasizes creating a clear and impactful image.

to recount something exhaustively

Implies a complete and thorough narration.

to depict something meticulously

Highlights the care and precision in the description.

to clarify something extensively

Focuses on removing any ambiguity through detailed explanation.

FAQs

What does "to detail something" mean?

The phrase "to detail something" means to describe or explain something thoroughly and comprehensively, providing all relevant information and aspects.

How can I use "to detail something" in a sentence?

You can use "to detail something" when you want to express that you are going to provide a thorough explanation or description, such as, "The report will "to detail something" about the incident".

What are some alternatives to "to detail something"?

Some alternatives to "to detail something" include "to elaborate on something", "to specify something", or "to describe something thoroughly".

Is it better to "detail something" or "go into detail about something"?

Both "detail something" and "go into detail about something" are correct. "Go into detail about something" is slightly more common and emphasizes the depth of the explanation, while "detail something" is more direct. Choose based on the desired emphasis and style.