Containing specific, carefully organized information about many relevant parts.
Reach for it when praising a description or plan that supports accurate understanding and action
Her detailed map marked water points, steep sections, and safe exits.
| everyday | |
|---|---|
| professional |
|
| formal |
everyday
specific
Fits when exact facts replace vague language
Careful A specific answer may cover only one point rather than provide a detailed account.
professional
itemized
Fits when separate components or costs are listed individually
Careful A narrative explanation may be detailed without using an itemized format.
professional
Fits when painstaking care in preparation deserves praise
Careful Meticulous describes the maker's care and may imply more precision than the document shows.
professional
Fits when complete treatment and careful checking are central
Careful A thorough summary can be concise and need not include many details.
formal
Fits when breadth across the whole subject matters most
Careful Comprehensive coverage can stay high-level and omit fine detail.
formal
explicit
Fits when nothing important is left implied
Careful Explicit wording can be brief and direct without being detailed.
detailed plan
The committee approved a detailed plan for moving the collection.
detailed description
A detailed description helped the ranger identify the injured bird.
detailed record
The mason kept a detailed record of every repair.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Neskaya, American accent, from Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 Updated
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