verbal precision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "verbal precision" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the clarity and accuracy of spoken or written language. Example: "In academic writing, verbal precision is essential to convey complex ideas effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Academic

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

He added that verbal precision seemed to him more lasting than the pictorial kind, and—"peculiarly"—more precise.

The New Yorker

As a distinctly challenging poetry, it remains remarkably gentle in its craft of verbal precision and figuration.

The Guardian - Books

The action starts in wartime with Doris, a former teacher, seeking to instil the virtues of hard work and verbal precision in her nine-year-old daughter, Margaret.

The Guardian

That sentence captures much of the Wodehouse magic - what PN Furbank called his "comic pretence of verbal precision, an exhibition of lexicology".

The Guardian - Books

It would be reasonable to call such a competition an "open tournament," but few sponsors make the effort to reach this level of verbal precision.

The New York Times

Motion creates a point of view that combines the boy's powers of acute sensory and psychological observation with the adult writer's rhetorical tact and verbal precision.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

It is hampered by Burgess's own sometimes stodgy stage adaptation, however, as well as moments when verbal and physical precision are substituted for rollicking energy.

The Guardian

A screenplay minimizes detail, precision, and verbal metaphor in favor of their visual correlatives.

Huffington Post

In terms of physical precision and verbal delivery, it's a master-class in comedy acting".

Wikipedia

The gestural precision and pointed verbal inflections that result are themselves a mark of worldly pressure, as if the atmosphere, political and societal, were reflecting itself back into the characters' very fiber and joining their self-consciousness to a hyper-alert wariness.

The New Yorker

However, they can help to clarify definitions of different processes with greater precision than informal verbal explanations, they can lend plausibility to hypotheses by demonstrating that assumed consequences logically follow from premises, and they can guide future empirical work by identifying the kinds of variables that might be important and that future empirical work should focus on.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In academic writing, prioritize "verbal precision" to ensure your arguments are clearly and accurately conveyed. Using specific terminology can eliminate ambiguity and strengthen your claims.

Common error

While "verbal precision" is important, avoid using overly complex or obscure vocabulary simply to sound intelligent. Clarity should always be prioritized over complexity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "verbal precision" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "verbal" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "precision". Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Books

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "verbal precision" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that emphasizes the importance of using clear and accurate language. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is applicable across different contexts, especially in academia, news, and professional settings. While striving for accuracy, it's crucial to avoid overusing complex vocabulary and maintain readability. By incorporating specific terminology and avoiding ambiguous language, you can significantly enhance the clarity and effectiveness of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

linguistic accuracy

Focuses on correctness in language use.

exact wording

Emphasizes the selection of precise words.

precise language

Highlights the use of language that is clear and unambiguous.

clear articulation

Stresses clarity in expressing thoughts.

articulate expression

Focuses on the ability to express oneself effectively.

careful phrasing

Highlights the importance of choosing words carefully.

concise communication

Emphasizes brevity and clarity in conveying a message.

accurate diction

Refers to the correctness of word choice.

sharp rhetoric

Highlights effective and persuasive speaking or writing.

well-defined language

Stresses the clarity and definition of the language used.

FAQs

How can I improve my "verbal precision" in writing?

To enhance your "verbal precision", focus on using specific and accurate language, avoiding vague terms. Review your writing to identify and replace any ambiguous words or phrases with more precise alternatives.

What's the difference between "verbal precision" and general clarity?

"Verbal precision" refers specifically to the accuracy and exactness of word choice, while clarity encompasses overall understandability. You can have clear writing that lacks "verbal precision" if the language isn't specifically tailored to the subject.

Which is better: "verbal precision" or flowery language?

The choice depends on context. For technical or academic writing, "verbal precision" is crucial. In creative writing, flowery language might be preferred, but even then, precision can enhance imagery. Choose "precise language" whenever there is a possibility of misinterpretation.

Are there any downsides to focusing too much on "verbal precision"?

Yes, excessive focus on "verbal precision" can lead to overly formal or stilted writing. It's important to balance accuracy with readability and maintaining a natural tone. Sometimes, less is more.