word for word

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'word for word' is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to emphasize that something has been repeated exactly as it was said, written, or heard. For example, "She repeated the phrase word for word."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

I may quote her word for word.

The New York Times

Same thing, word for word.

The New York Times

What she had said, word for word.

The New Yorker

They knew the lyrics, word for word.

The Guardian - Music

I've set it down word for word.

The New Yorker

Yes, it is the same language almost word for word.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

DC: It's word-for-word from the script.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"It's not a word-for-word thing," she said.

The New York Times

Only 16percentt read word-for-word.

Forbes

Our suggestions were often taken word-for-word".

BBC

Goldberg and Jamula perform the internet word-for-word onstage.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "word for word" to emphasize the importance of exact replication, such as when quoting someone or following instructions meticulously.

Common error

Avoid using "word for word" too frequently in casual conversation; simpler alternatives like "exactly" or "precisely" might sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "word for word" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to specify the manner in which something is repeated or copied. This is reinforced by Ludwig AI and many examples that demonstrate its usage to emphasize exact duplication.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Wiki

29%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "word for word" is a grammatically correct and commonly used adverbial phrase that emphasizes exactness in repetition or transcription. As noted by Ludwig AI, it’s frequently found in contexts such as news, general reference, and academic writing, making it versatile for various communication needs. While alternatives like "verbatim" exist, "word for word" provides a clear and widely understood way to stress the importance of precision. Remember to use it when conveying accuracy is essential, and consider context to avoid overuse in overly informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

verbatim

A single word that emphasizes the exact reproduction of words.

exactly as stated

Focuses on the precision with which something is reported.

in the same words

Highlights the unchanged wording when something is repeated.

letter for letter

Implies a focus on the individual characters being identical.

to the letter

Similar in meaning but often used in the context of following instructions precisely.

down to the last detail

Emphasizes meticulous replication, extending beyond just words.

precisely

A single adverb stressing accuracy.

faithfully

Suggests a high degree of accuracy and loyalty to the original.

with complete accuracy

Highlights the lack of errors in the reproduction.

in every detail

Focuses on completeness and meticulousness.

FAQs

How can I use "word for word" in a sentence?

Use "word for word" to indicate that something is repeated or copied exactly as it was originally said or written. For example, "She recited the poem "word for word"."

What are some alternatives to saying "word for word"?

Alternatives include "verbatim", "exactly as stated", or "in the same words", depending on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "repeat word for word"?

While "repeat word for word" isn't strictly redundant, the phrase "word for word" already implies repetition, so saying just ""word for word"" is usually sufficient.

What's the difference between "word for word" and "paraphrasing"?

"Word for word" means replicating something exactly, while paraphrasing involves restating something in your own words, which is the opposite of replicating it "word for word".