with surgical precision

USAGE SUMMARY

"with surgical precision" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is extremely precise or accurate in a particular action or task. Example: The surgeon carefully removed the tumor with surgical precision, leaving no damage to the surrounding tissue.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"The abdomen was stitched with surgical precision".

The New York Times

They were all placed there, with surgical precision, with tweezers.

The New York Times - Food

Animal control officers said some attacks were carried out with surgical precision.

The New York Times

His attack was fast with surgical precision and surprise on his side".

The Guardian

With surgical precision, I wet-wipe my lips and pull down the opaque tight shroud.

The Guardian

Any spraying of insecticides near the wetlands should also be done with surgical precision.

The New York Times

Her actors' bodies are trained to express the results of their artistic autopsies with surgical precision.

The New York Times

Having whetted the blade, I finally slit the fish open, with surgical precision.

The New Yorker

Work with surgical precision and refine wobbly lines with concealer and a brush.

The Times

Her bejeweled poems executed with surgical precision resonated deeply with me.

Columbia University

She lets it go through her and writes with surgical precision about what's going on within human nature".

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "with surgical precision" to describe actions or processes that require a high degree of accuracy and control, especially in situations where errors could have significant consequences.

Common error

Avoid using "with surgical precision" in very casual or informal settings, as it can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler language when describing everyday actions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "with surgical precision" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to describe the manner in which an action is performed. It emphasizes a high degree of accuracy, skill, and control. Ludwig examples show it modifies actions like "slit the fish open", "exposed a great gaping wound" or "targeting ads".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Science

10%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "with surgical precision" is a phrase used to emphasize a high degree of accuracy, skill, and control in performing an action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and usable in various contexts. It's particularly common in news, scientific, and academic writing. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the formal tone it typically conveys. While it’s a robust descriptor, alternatives like "meticulously" or "with pinpoint accuracy" might be more suitable for some contexts. The phrase's impact lies in its ability to convey a sense of accuracy and care, borrowed from the precision demanded in surgical procedures.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with the utmost precision

Emphasizes that precision is taken to the highest degree possible.

with pinpoint accuracy

Highlights the exactness and directness of the accuracy.

with meticulous accuracy

Emphasizes the detailed and thorough nature of the accuracy involved.

with unerring accuracy

Implies that the accuracy is consistent and never deviates.

with extreme exactitude

Stresses the rigor and precision in adhering to specific details.

with calculated precision

Focuses on the deliberate and planned nature of the precision.

with clinical accuracy

Implies a detached, objective, and highly precise approach.

with faultless execution

Highlights the error-free and skillful performance.

with absolute correctness

Emphasizes the complete absence of errors or deviation from the standard.

with careful attention to detail

Highlights the thoroughness and focus on every aspect.

FAQs

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

This phrase emphasizes accuracy and control. For example, "The surgeon removed the tumor "with surgical precision"" or "The analyst identified the key market trends "with surgical precision"".

What are some alternatives to "with surgical precision"?

You can use alternatives such as "with meticulous accuracy", "with pinpoint accuracy", or "with extreme exactitude" depending on the context.

What does it mean to do something "with surgical precision"?

It means to perform a task with a high degree of accuracy, skill, and control, similar to the precision required in surgery. It suggests that the action is carried out carefully and precisely to avoid errors or unwanted consequences.

Is it appropriate to use "with surgical precision" in formal writing?

Yes, it is appropriate for formal writing. This phrase conveys a strong sense of accuracy and control, making it suitable for professional, academic, and technical contexts.