with clockwork precision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "with clockwork precision" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe actions or processes that are executed with exactness and reliability, similar to the functioning of a clock. Example: "The team completed the project with clockwork precision, meeting every deadline without fail."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

In the Broadway musical, Jesus is flogged with clockwork precision.

The New Yorker

His life unfolding with clockwork precision, he used every instant profitably.

The New York Times - Books

Mr. Chabrol's moves with clockwork precision and presents its characters with a sense of detached irony.

The New York Times

Meanwhile, Binnig's colleagues at IBM Zurich have used the STM to turn out even smaller nanoobjects with clockwork precision.

MIT Technology Review

Following an elaborate schedule with clockwork precision, he visited neighborhood after neighborhood to view staged earthquake devastation.

The New York Times

Wars in Afghanistan don't begin and end with clockwork precision, but the American-led campaign to overthrow the Taliban has succeeded.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Within that narrow frame the gears of a complex narrative mesh with ravishing clockwork precision.

The New York Times

His.929 winning percentage is tops among all college football coaches placing him ahead of such names as Rockne, Stagg, Pop Warner, etc. His teams have worked with such clockwork precision over the years that local fans hang a sign in the stadium that says "Welcome to the Machine".

Huffington Post

Thomas Adès conducted with a composer's understanding, clockwork precision and combustive flair.

The Guardian

In the Rodrigo the soloists were the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet -- John Dearman, Scott Tennant, Andrew York and William Kanengiser -- an ensemble that plays with a rich tone and an admirable clockwork precision.

The New York Times - Arts

But the production ticked away with clockwork precision.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "with clockwork precision" to describe processes or actions that are highly predictable, consistent, and executed without errors. For example, "The team executed the marketing campaign with clockwork precision, resulting in a significant increase in sales."

Common error

Avoid using "with clockwork precision" in situations that require flexibility or spontaneity. This phrase is best suited for describing tasks that are planned and executed meticulously. Using it in contexts involving creativity or improvisation may sound unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "with clockwork precision" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase. It modifies a verb or verb phrase, describing how an action is performed. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase adds emphasis to the exactness and reliability of the action.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "with clockwork precision" serves as an adverbial phrase emphasizing the exactness and predictability of an action or process. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news, encyclopedia and science contexts. While it conveys accuracy and reliability, it's best suited for formal or neutral settings. When seeking alternative expressions, consider options like "with mechanical precision" or "with flawless timing", to match the intended nuance and formality. Remember to use the phrase where meticulous and orderly execution is key, avoiding contexts that demand flexibility. Ludwig's analysis underscores the importance of context and register when employing this expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with mechanical precision

Focuses on the mechanical aspect of precision, highlighting the exactness of a machine.

with flawless timing

Emphasizes the perfect synchronization and accuracy of timing in an event or process.

with absolute regularity

Highlights the consistent and predictable nature of an action or occurrence.

like a well-oiled machine

Uses a simile to describe something functioning smoothly and efficiently.

with machine-like accuracy

Similar to mechanical precision, focusing on the accuracy resembling a machine.

with perfect synchronization

Stresses the coordinated and simultaneous execution of actions.

in a highly regimented manner

Indicates a strict and orderly approach, emphasizing discipline and control.

with unwavering consistency

Highlights the unchanging and steadfast nature of an action or process.

like a finely tuned instrument

Uses a simile to describe something working with delicacy and precision.

with calculated exactitude

Emphasizes the deliberate and precise nature of the execution.

FAQs

How can I use "with clockwork precision" in a sentence?

You can use "with clockwork precision" to describe actions or processes that are executed with exactness and reliability. For example, "The project was completed "with clockwork precision", meeting all deadlines."

What are some alternatives to "with clockwork precision"?

Some alternatives include "with mechanical precision", "with flawless timing", or "with absolute regularity", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "with clockwork precision" in informal settings?

While grammatically correct, "with clockwork precision" is more suited for formal or professional contexts. In informal settings, simpler phrases like "perfectly timed" or "smoothly" might be more appropriate.

What does it mean when something is described as happening "with clockwork precision"?

It means that the event or process occurred in a highly predictable, consistent, and accurate manner, similar to the workings of a clock. It emphasizes reliability and lack of errors.