without embellishment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "without embellishment" is correct and can be used in written English.
It means without any additional decoration, exaggeration, or elaboration. Example: The witness stated the facts of the case without embellishment, sticking to the truth and not adding any extra details.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

"The story is good enough without embellishment".

The New Yorker

I told her, this time without embellishment.

The New York Times

Despite their grand location, they were built without embellishment, or even private bathrooms.

The New York Times

The water is without embellishment, as is (or was) the sand.

Independent

Sure, you can add the mushrooms and leaves, but the cake is lovely without embellishment.

The Washington Post

As long as it's fiction, you can get to the truth without embellishment.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

Cautiously, I tasted the Afghan's poutine, which was the basic fries-curds-and-gravy dish without embellishments.

The New Yorker

One of the great things about James Brown was that he would be happy to take one groove and stay on it without embellishments, yet within that one groove there's a real human pulse of subtle changes and variation".

The Guardian - Music

Vladimir Lenin, founder of the Soviet state and a lawyer by training, wrote: "The courts should not do away with terror — to promise otherwise would be to deceive ourselves and others — but should give it foundation and legality, clearly, honestly and without embellishments".

The New York Times

A chapter of the penal code that forbids any rendition of the Star Spangled Banner "except as an entire composition and number without embellishments or melodies". Had Woodstock been held in Michigan, Jimi Hendrix would have faced a $500 and up to 90 days in jail.

The Washington Post

Szymon Szymonowic in his Pastorals portrayed, without embellishments, the hardships of serf life.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "without embellishment" when you want to emphasize that a statement or description is presented in its purest form, free from exaggeration or unnecessary detail. It adds credibility and reinforces honesty.

Common error

Avoid using "without embellishment" in casual conversations or informal writing. Its formal tone can sound unnatural and stilted in settings where simplicity and directness are preferred.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "without embellishment" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe how an action is performed. It indicates that something is communicated or presented in a straightforward manner, lacking any additions, exaggerations, or ornamental details. Ludwig provides several examples demonstrating this function in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "without embellishment" is a prepositional phrase that denotes a presentation or description devoid of any exaggeration, ornamentation, or unnecessary detail. As verified by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and functions primarily to emphasize truthfulness and objectivity. While its usage isn't exceedingly common, it finds its place in neutral to formal contexts, particularly in News & Media. Remember to avoid using this phrase in informal situations, where more direct language is suitable. Related phrases like "without exaggeration" or "simply" can offer similar meanings, tailored to the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

without exaggeration

Focuses specifically on the absence of overstated or inflated details.

without elaboration

Highlights the lack of further explanation or development of a topic.

simply

Emphasizes directness and lack of complexity in the presentation.

plainly

Indicates clarity and straightforwardness, avoiding obscurity.

verbatim

Refers to repeating something exactly as it was originally said or written.

as is

Indicates that something is presented in its current state, with no changes or additions.

unadorned

Highlights the absence of decorative elements or enhancements.

matter-of-factly

Describes a presentation that is objective and devoid of emotional coloring.

unvarnished

Suggests a raw and honest portrayal, without any attempt to gloss over imperfections.

in a nutshell

Implies a concise summary, stripping away non-essential details.

FAQs

How can I use "without embellishment" in a sentence?

You can use "without embellishment" to emphasize the straightforwardness and accuracy of a statement. For example, "She told the story "without embellishment", focusing only on the key facts".

What's a simpler way to say "without embellishment"?

Alternatives include "simply", "plainly", or "without exaggeration". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "without embellishment" or "without adornment"?

"Without embellishment" focuses on the absence of exaggeration or added detail, while "without adornment" emphasizes the lack of decorative elements. Use "without embellishment" when describing a statement or narrative, and "without adornment" when referring to visual presentation or style.

What is the nuance of saying something is presented "without embellishment"?

Saying something is presented ""without embellishment"" implies a commitment to truth and accuracy. It suggests the speaker or writer is prioritizing objectivity and avoiding any temptation to enhance or distort the facts.