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B1 adjective #43 most common 16 min read

detailed

Top 43

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips detailed in 30 Seconds

Explanation detailed in your Level:

At the A1 level, the word 'detailed' might be a bit advanced, but it is very useful for describing things that have a lot of parts. Imagine you are looking at a picture. If the picture has many small things in it, like trees, birds, and flowers, you can say it is a 'detailed picture.' It means there is a lot to see. At this level, you can use 'detailed' to talk about simple things like maps, drawings, or instructions. For example, 'This map is detailed' means the map shows many streets and places. It is the opposite of 'simple.' If a teacher gives you 'detailed instructions,' it means they told you exactly what to do, step by step. You don't need to worry about the complex grammar of the word yet. Just remember that 'detailed' means 'having many small parts' or 'giving a lot of information.' It is a good word to use when you want to say that something is not simple or empty. You can also use it to describe your favorite toys or books. If a book has many pictures and a long story, it is a detailed book. Using this word will help you describe the world around you more clearly, even with a small vocabulary. It shows that you are noticing the small things, which is a big step in learning a new language.

At the A2 level, you are starting to describe things in more depth, and 'detailed' is a perfect word for this. You can use it to talk about your daily life, your work, or your hobbies. For example, if you are planning a trip, you might want a 'detailed itinerary' that shows the times of your flights and the names of your hotels. This is more than just saying 'I am going to Paris.' It shows you have a plan with many parts. In a job, you might have to give a 'detailed report' to your boss about what you did during the week. This means you include the small facts, not just the big ones. At this level, you should also notice that 'detailed' is an adjective. You put it before a noun, like 'detailed map' or 'detailed drawing.' You can also use it after the verb 'to be,' like 'The explanation was very detailed.' This helps you make longer and more interesting sentences. You might also start to see 'detailed' in reading exercises, especially when describing people or places. A 'detailed description' of a person might include the color of their eyes, the type of clothes they are wearing, and how they speak. Using 'detailed' helps you move away from very simple words like 'good' or 'big' and makes your English sound more natural and precise.

As a B1 learner, 'detailed' is an essential part of your vocabulary. At this level, you are expected to handle more complex topics and provide clearer explanations. 'Detailed' allows you to do exactly that. You can use it to describe academic subjects, professional tasks, and social situations. For instance, in an essay, you might provide a 'detailed analysis' of a problem, looking at all the different causes and effects. This shows a higher level of thinking than just stating the problem. In a professional setting, you might be asked for 'detailed feedback' on a project. This means you shouldn't just say 'I like it'; you should explain what parts are good and what parts need improvement. You will also encounter 'detailed' in more complex listening and reading materials. You might hear a news report giving 'detailed coverage' of an event, or read a 'detailed account' of a historical battle. At the B1 level, you should also be aware of common collocations, such as 'detailed plan,' 'detailed instructions,' and 'detailed description.' You can also start using adverbs to modify the word, like 'highly detailed' or 'fairly detailed.' This adds nuance to your speaking and writing. Remember that 'detailed' implies a certain level of care and thoroughness. Using it correctly shows that you are a diligent and attentive communicator who values accuracy.

At the B2 level, you should be able to use 'detailed' with a high degree of confidence and nuance. You understand that 'detailed' is not just about quantity, but also about the quality and relevance of the information provided. In professional and academic contexts, you can use 'detailed' to distinguish between different types of work. For example, you might contrast a 'preliminary sketch' with a 'detailed design,' showing that you understand the stages of a process. You can also use 'detailed' to critique information. You might say that a report is 'sufficiently detailed' for a general audience but 'not detailed enough' for experts. This shows you can evaluate information based on its purpose and audience. At this level, you should also be comfortable using 'detailed' in more abstract ways. You might talk about a 'detailed understanding' of a complex theory or a 'detailed memory' of a past event. You can also use the word in the comparative and superlative forms to make sophisticated comparisons: 'This is by far the most detailed study ever conducted on this topic.' Furthermore, you should be aware of the difference between 'detailed' and its synonyms like 'meticulous,' 'exhaustive,' and 'comprehensive,' and be able to choose the best word for the context. Your use of 'detailed' should reflect a mature command of English, where you can provide depth and precision in both your spoken and written communication.

For C1 learners, 'detailed' is a word that you use with precision and stylistic flair. You are likely using it in professional environments, high-level academic research, or sophisticated social interactions. At this level, you understand the subtle connotations that 'detailed' can carry. For example, in a legal or technical context, a 'detailed provision' or 'detailed specification' is a matter of critical importance where every word counts. You can use 'detailed' to describe complex systems, intricate theories, and nuanced arguments. You might discuss the 'detailed architecture' of a computer system or the 'detailed nuances' of a philosophical debate. You are also capable of using 'detailed' to manage the flow of information in your writing. You might use a 'detailed introduction' to set the stage for a complex topic, or provide 'detailed appendices' for those who want to dive deeper into the data. Your vocabulary should also include related terms like 'granular,' 'minutiae,' and 'scrupulous.' You might say, 'The report provides a granular look at the data, offering a detailed breakdown of every variable.' This shows a very high level of linguistic sophistication. You also understand when *not* to use 'detailed.' You know that in some contexts, being too detailed can be a flaw, and you might use words like 'over-elaborate' or 'pedantic' to describe such situations. Your command of 'detailed' at the C1 level is about more than just knowing the definition; it's about using the word to navigate complex information landscapes with ease and authority.

At the C2 level, your use of 'detailed' is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker. You use the word effortlessly in the most demanding contexts, from writing doctoral theses to negotiating complex international agreements. You understand the historical and etymological roots of the word and how they influence its modern usage. You can use 'detailed' to describe the most subtle and abstract concepts, such as a 'detailed psychological profile' or a 'detailed historical narrative.' You are also a master of the word's collocations and can use them to create powerful, evocative imagery. You might describe a 'detailed tapestry of lies' or a 'detailed mosaic of cultural influences.' At this level, you also use 'detailed' to reflect on the nature of information itself. You might engage in a debate about whether a 'detailed representation' of reality is ever truly possible, or how 'detailed observations' can sometimes lead to different conclusions depending on the observer's perspective. Your use of 'detailed' is part of a broad and flexible vocabulary that allows you to express yourself with absolute precision and elegance. You can switch between different registers and styles, using 'detailed' in a formal scientific paper or an informal, witty conversation. You also have a keen sense of the word's rhythm and how it fits into the overall structure of your sentences and paragraphs. For a C2 learner, 'detailed' is not just a word; it is a tool for the masterful construction of meaning.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

detailed in 30 Seconds

Detailed means thorough and full of small, specific facts.
It is an adjective used to describe reports, plans, and descriptions.
The word implies care, precision, and a high level of completeness.
It is the opposite of vague, simple, or superficial.

The adjective detailed is a cornerstone of precise communication in English. At its core, it describes something that is not merely general or vague but is instead characterized by a high degree of specificity, thoroughness, and completeness. When we say a report is detailed, we are implying that the author has taken the time to examine every facet of the subject matter, leaving no stone unturned. This word is essential for moving beyond surface-level observations into the realm of professional, academic, and technical accuracy. It suggests a process of 'detailing'—breaking a whole into its constituent parts to understand how they function together. In everyday conversation, people use 'detailed' to express appreciation for clarity or to request more information when a summary is insufficient. For instance, if someone gives you directions that only say 'turn left at the light,' you might ask for a more detailed set of instructions that includes street names, landmarks, and distances. This word bridges the gap between a simple sketch and a high-resolution photograph. It implies a commitment to truth and accuracy, as details are the building blocks of evidence and logical reasoning. In the world of art, a detailed painting is one where you can see individual brushstrokes or the texture of fabric; in the world of law, a detailed testimony is one that provides specific times, dates, and sequences of events. Using this word correctly involves understanding that it carries a positive connotation of care and effort, though in some contexts, if something is 'too detailed,' it might imply that it is overwhelming or unnecessarily complex.

Core Concept: The state of containing many small, specific facts or items that provide a complete picture.
Etymological Root: Derived from the French 'détailler,' meaning to cut into pieces, suggesting a breakdown of a whole into parts.

The detective spent hours reviewing the detailed notes left by the witness, looking for any small clue that might solve the case.

Furthermore, 'detailed' often functions as a marker of quality. In manufacturing, a detailed inspection ensures that every component of a machine is functioning correctly, which is vital for safety and reliability. In education, a detailed syllabus helps students understand exactly what is expected of them throughout the semester. The word is versatile, appearing in almost every domain of human activity. It is also important to note the grammatical flexibility of the word; it can modify abstract nouns like 'analysis' or 'plan,' as well as concrete nouns like 'map' or 'drawing.' When using 'detailed,' you are signaling to your audience that you value precision. It is the opposite of 'vague,' 'sketchy,' or 'cursory.' If a doctor gives a detailed explanation of a procedure, the patient feels more at ease because the unknown has been replaced by specific facts. This transition from the general to the specific is the hallmark of the word 'detailed.'

Please provide a detailed account of your expenses so that the accounting department can process your reimbursement.

Synonym Nuance: While 'thorough' means doing something completely, 'detailed' specifically highlights the presence of many small parts or facts.

The artist is famous for her detailed portraits that capture every wrinkle and expression on the subject's face.

We need a detailed schedule for the construction project to avoid any potential delays.

Visual Analogy: Think of a 'detailed' map as one where you can see not just the highways, but every small street, park, and building in a city.

The scientist published a detailed study on the effects of climate change on local bird populations.

Using 'detailed' effectively requires an understanding of its grammatical role as an adjective. Most commonly, it is used in the attributive position, meaning it comes directly before the noun it modifies. For example, in the phrase 'a detailed explanation,' the word 'detailed' provides immediate information about the nature of the explanation. It can also be used in the predicative position, following a linking verb like 'be' or 'seem.' For instance, 'The instructions were very detailed.' In this case, the adjective describes the subject of the sentence. One of the most important aspects of using 'detailed' is knowing which adverbs pair well with it to add emphasis. You will often hear 'highly detailed,' 'extremely detailed,' or 'very detailed.' These intensifiers help to convey the level of depth being discussed. Conversely, if you want to express that something lacks depth, you might say it is 'not very detailed' or 'insufficiently detailed.' It is also common to use 'detailed' in comparative and superlative forms: 'This report is more detailed than the last one,' or 'This is the most detailed map I have ever seen.' When writing, consider the rhythm of your sentence. 'Detailed' is a three-syllable word (dee-tayld or dih-tayld) that carries a certain weight, making it ideal for concluding a list of descriptors or for providing a strong opening to a technical description.

Attributive Usage: Placed before the noun: 'She gave a detailed presentation on the new marketing strategy.'
Predicative Usage: Placed after a linking verb: 'The budget for the next fiscal year is incredibly detailed.'

After the accident, the police required a detailed statement from every person who was present at the scene.

In professional settings, 'detailed' is frequently used in the context of project management and planning. You might hear a manager say, 'We need a detailed breakdown of the costs.' Here, 'breakdown' refers to a list of items, and 'detailed' specifies that the list must be thorough. In academic writing, 'detailed' is used to describe methodologies and findings. A 'detailed methodology' allows other researchers to replicate a study, which is a fundamental principle of science. In literature and film criticism, 'detailed' describes the world-building or character development. A 'detailed setting' makes a story feel more immersive and believable. When you are describing a person's work, saying it is 'detailed' is a high compliment, suggesting that they are diligent and attentive. However, be careful not to over-rely on the word. If every sentence in your essay uses 'detailed,' it can become repetitive. Try using synonyms like 'comprehensive,' 'exhaustive,' or 'intricate' to maintain variety. Another common pattern is 'detailed enough.' For example, 'The summary was detailed enough for me to understand the main points without reading the whole book.' This usage establishes a threshold of sufficiency.

The software update comes with a detailed list of bug fixes and new features for users to explore.

Adverbial Modification: Common pairings: 'highly detailed,' 'meticulously detailed,' 'painstakingly detailed,' 'sufficiently detailed.'

The historian provided a detailed analysis of the events leading up to the revolution.

The novel is famous for its detailed descriptions of the French countryside in the 19th century.

Comparative Form: 'We need a more detailed plan if we want to secure funding from the investors.'

The satellite captured detailed images of the storm's eye as it moved across the ocean.

In the modern world, the word 'detailed' is ubiquitous, appearing in contexts ranging from high-stakes corporate boardrooms to casual conversations about hobbies. If you work in an office, you will hear it constantly during meetings. A project lead might say, 'I've sent out a detailed agenda for tomorrow's call,' ensuring that everyone knows exactly what will be discussed. In the tech industry, developers talk about 'detailed specifications' or 'detailed documentation,' which are the blueprints for building software. Without these detailed guides, coding would be a chaotic process of trial and error. In the realm of news and journalism, reporters often promise 'detailed coverage' of an unfolding event, signaling to the audience that they will provide more than just the headlines. They will include interviews, background information, and expert analysis. You also hear this word frequently in the service industry. For example, a car detailing service doesn't just wash your car; they provide a 'detailed cleaning' that involves scrubbing every nook and cranny, polishing the leather, and vacuuming the carpets until the vehicle looks brand new. Here, 'detailed' is used as a verb-derived adjective to describe a specific, high-quality service. In medical settings, doctors and nurses rely on 'detailed patient histories' to make accurate diagnoses. A missing detail in a medical record could lead to a serious error, so the word 'detailed' carries a weight of professional responsibility and safety.

Corporate Context: Used to describe reports, plans, and feedback: 'The CEO requested a detailed review of the quarterly earnings.'
Technical Context: Used in engineering and IT: 'The detailed schematics for the circuit board are available on the server.'

The travel agent provided us with a detailed itinerary, including flight numbers, hotel addresses, and tour times.

In the arts and humanities, 'detailed' is a standard term for critique. An art historian might praise a Renaissance painting for its 'detailed background,' where even the distant mountains are rendered with precision. A literary critic might discuss a 'detailed character study' in a novel, where the author explores the protagonist's inner thoughts and motivations in great depth. In everyday life, you might use 'detailed' when talking about your interests. A model train enthusiast might spend months creating a 'detailed landscape' for their tracks, adding tiny trees, people, and buildings. A chef might follow a 'detailed recipe' to ensure a complex dish like a soufflé turns out perfectly. The word also appears in legal contexts, such as 'detailed contracts.' These documents are often long and difficult to read because they must be detailed enough to cover every possible scenario and protect all parties involved. When you hear 'detailed' in a legal sense, it often implies a need for careful reading and perhaps professional advice. Finally, in the age of social media and online reviews, you will see users asking for 'detailed reviews' of products. They want to know more than just 'it's good'; they want to know about the battery life, the build quality, and the user interface. In all these cases, 'detailed' serves as a signal for high-quality information.

The weather forecast gave a detailed warning about the upcoming blizzard, specifying which areas would be hardest hit.

Legal Context: Used for contracts and laws: 'The new legislation includes detailed regulations on carbon emissions.'

The museum exhibit features a detailed model of the ancient city of Rome at its peak.

I need a detailed explanation of why the project is behind schedule.

Everyday Usage: Used for hobbies and requests: 'Can you give me a detailed description of the person you saw?'

The cookbook offers detailed instructions on how to bake the perfect sourdough bread.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with 'detailed' is confusing it with the noun 'detail.' While 'detail' refers to a single small fact, 'detailed' is the adjective that describes the whole object or account. For example, you should say 'a detailed report' (adjective + noun), not 'a detail report.' Another common error involves the use of the word 'details' (plural noun) when 'detailed' (adjective) is required. A student might write, 'The book is very details,' which is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is 'The book is very detailed.' Additionally, some learners struggle with the placement of the word. As an adjective, it usually precedes the noun it modifies. While you can say 'The information is detailed,' it is more common in many contexts to say 'The detailed information.' Another subtle mistake is using 'detailed' when a more specific synonym would be more appropriate. For instance, if you are describing a person who is very careful, 'meticulous' or 'thorough' might be better choices. 'Detailed' describes the result (the report, the map, the plan), while 'meticulous' describes the person's character or the process they used. There is also the issue of 'over-detailing.' In communication, being 'too detailed' can sometimes be a negative thing if it leads to 'information overload.' If you provide a detailed explanation of a simple concept, your audience might become bored or confused. Therefore, the mistake isn't just grammatical; it's also about understanding the appropriate level of detail for a given situation.

Noun vs. Adjective: Mistake: 'I need a detail plan.' Correct: 'I need a detailed plan.'
Plural Noun Confusion: Mistake: 'His work is very details.' Correct: 'His work is very detailed.'

Incorrect: He gave me a detail description of the house. Correct: He gave me a detailed description of the house.

Another area of confusion is the difference between 'detailed' and 'elaborate.' While they are synonyms, 'elaborate' often implies that something is complex or ornate, sometimes unnecessarily so. 'Detailed' is more neutral and simply means thorough. If you describe a 'detailed plan,' it sounds professional and necessary. If you describe an 'elaborate plan,' it might sound like a scheme from a movie. Learners also sometimes forget that 'detailed' can be used as a verb (the past tense of 'to detail'). For example, 'He detailed the events of the night.' In this case, it is an action, not a description. Confusing these two functions can lead to awkward sentence structures. Finally, be careful with the adverb 'detailedly.' While it exists in some dictionaries, it is very rare and often sounds unnatural to native speakers. Instead of saying 'He explained it detailedly,' it is much better to say 'He gave a detailed explanation' or 'He explained it in detail.' Using 'in detail' is a very common and natural-sounding alternative to the adverbial form. Understanding these nuances will help you use the word with the same precision that the word itself describes.

Incorrect: The map was detail. Correct: The map was detailed.

Contextual Appropriateness: Don't use 'detailed' if you just mean 'long.' A long story can still be vague. 'Detailed' implies specific information.

Incorrect: I want a details answer. Correct: I want a detailed answer.

Incorrect: She wrote a detailly report. Correct: She wrote a detailed report.

The 'Too Much' Trap: Sometimes, being 'too detailed' can obscure the main point. Always consider your audience's needs.

Incorrect: The drawing is very detail. Correct: The drawing is very detailed.

While 'detailed' is a fantastic and versatile word, English offers a rich palette of synonyms that can provide more specific nuances depending on the context. Understanding these alternatives will help you become a more sophisticated speaker and writer. For instance, if you want to emphasize that something includes every possible detail and is completely thorough, you might use the word exhaustive. An 'exhaustive search' means you looked everywhere and left nothing out. If you want to describe something that is very large in scope and covers many different areas, comprehensive is an excellent choice. A 'comprehensive insurance policy' covers a wide range of potential issues. If you are describing a person who is extremely careful and pays attention to the smallest details, meticulous is the perfect word. A 'meticulous researcher' is someone who never makes a mistake because they check everything twice. For things that are complex and have many small, interconnected parts, intricate is often used. An 'intricate design' on a piece of jewelry suggests a high level of craftsmanship and complexity. Another related word is elaborate, which suggests that something is not only detailed but also complex and perhaps decorative. An 'elaborate wedding' involves many different parts and a lot of planning. Finally, specific is a great alternative when you want to emphasize that the details are exact and not general. 'Specific instructions' tell you exactly what to do.

Detailed vs. Exhaustive: 'Detailed' means having many facts; 'exhaustive' means having ALL the facts and leaving nothing out.
Detailed vs. Meticulous: 'Detailed' describes the object; 'meticulous' describes the person or the careful process used to create it.

The professor gave a comprehensive lecture that covered the entire history of the Roman Empire in one hour.

Choosing the right word can change the tone of your sentence. If you say a report is 'detailed,' you are being factual. If you say it is 'exhaustive,' you are emphasizing how hard the author worked to find every piece of information. If you say it is 'meticulous,' you are praising the author's precision. On the other hand, if you want to use an antonym, you might choose words like vague, general, or superficial. A 'vague description' is the opposite of a detailed one; it doesn't give you enough information to form a clear picture. A 'superficial analysis' only looks at the surface and ignores the deeper details. Understanding these relationships helps you navigate the English language with more confidence. For example, in a job interview, you might say, 'I am a meticulous worker who always provides detailed reports.' This uses both words to create a strong, positive impression of your professional skills. In academic writing, you might say, 'While previous studies were superficial, this research offers a comprehensive and detailed look at the data.' This contrasts your work with others' in a way that highlights its value. By mastering these synonyms and antonyms, you can tailor your language to fit any situation perfectly.

The detective's meticulous investigation eventually led to the capture of the suspect.

Detailed vs. Intricate: 'Detailed' focuses on the amount of information; 'intricate' focuses on the complexity and beauty of the parts.

The watchmaker spent years perfecting the intricate internal mechanisms of the timepiece.

The company conducted an exhaustive search for a new CEO before finally hiring an internal candidate.

Detailed vs. Specific: 'Detailed' implies a large quantity of information; 'specific' implies that the information is exact and clearly defined.

We need specific examples of how the new policy will benefit our employees.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The word 'retail' comes from the same root as 'detailed.' Both words involve the idea of cutting something large into smaller, more manageable pieces!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈdiːteɪld/

US /dɪˈteɪld/

Primary stress can be on the first or second syllable depending on regional dialect.

Rhymes With

mailed sailed failed trailed hailed wailed paled scaled

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'detail-ed' (three syllables). It should be two syllables.
Putting too much emphasis on the 'ed' ending.
Confusing the pronunciation with the noun 'detail' (DEE-tail).
Mumbling the 't' sound in the middle.
Pronouncing the 'ai' as a short 'i' sound.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The word is common but often appears in complex sentences in academic or professional texts.

Writing 4/5

Learners often confuse it with the noun 'detail' or use it repetitively.

Speaking 3/5

Easy to use in basic descriptions, but harder to use with nuanced adverbs.

Listening 2/5

Usually clear in speech, though the stress can vary between speakers.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

detail plan report simple vague

Learn Next

meticulous comprehensive exhaustive intricate granularity

Advanced

scrupulous pedantic minutiae exhaustive comprehensive

Grammar to Know

Adjectives before nouns

A detailed report.

Adjectives after linking verbs

The report was detailed.

Comparative and superlative forms

More detailed, the most detailed.

Adverbial modification

Highly detailed, very detailed.

Past participles as adjectives

The word 'detailed' comes from the verb 'to detail'.

Examples by Level

The map is very detailed.

La carte est très détaillée.

Adjective after the verb 'is'.

I have a detailed drawing of a flower.

J'ai un dessin détaillé d'une fleur.

Adjective before the noun 'drawing'.

She gave me detailed instructions.

Elle m'a donné des instructions détaillées.

Plural noun 'instructions' modified by 'detailed'.

The book has detailed pictures.

Le livre a des images détaillées.

Adjective modifying the plural noun 'pictures'.

This is a detailed plan for the party.

C'est un plan détaillé pour la fête.

Adjective before the noun 'plan'.

The teacher's explanation was detailed.

L'explication du professeur était détaillée.

Predicative adjective following 'was'.

I like detailed toys.

J'aime les jouets détaillés.

Adjective modifying the plural noun 'toys'.

He made a detailed list of his friends.

Il a fait une liste détaillée de ses amis.

Adjective before the noun 'list'.

We need a detailed itinerary for our trip to London.

Nous avons besoin d'un itinéraire détaillé pour notre voyage à Londres.

Common collocation: 'detailed itinerary'.

The doctor asked for a detailed history of my health.

Le médecin a demandé un historique détaillé de ma santé.

Adjective modifying 'history'.

The police officer wrote a detailed report about the accident.

L'agent de police a écrit un rapport détaillé sur l'accident.

Common collocation: 'detailed report'.

Can you provide a more detailed description of the thief?

Pouvez-vous fournir une description plus détaillée du voleur ?

Comparative form: 'more detailed'.

The recipe gives detailed steps on how to make the cake.

La recette donne des étapes détaillées sur la façon de faire le gâteau.

Adjective modifying 'steps'.

The museum has a detailed model of the old city.

Le musée a une maquette détaillée de la vieille ville.

Adjective modifying 'model'.

I sent a detailed email to my boss explaining the problem.

J'ai envoyé un e-mail détaillé à mon patron expliquant le problème.

Adjective modifying 'email'.

The weather forecast was very detailed this morning.

Les prévisions météorologiques étaient très détaillées ce matin.

Adverb 'very' modifying 'detailed'.

The architect presented a detailed blueprint of the new office.

L'architecte a présenté un plan détaillé du nouveau bureau.

Professional context: 'detailed blueprint'.

We conducted a detailed analysis of the market trends.

Nous avons mené une analyse détaillée des tendances du marché.

Academic/Business context: 'detailed analysis'.

The novel is famous for its detailed character development.

Le roman est célèbre pour son développement détaillé des personnages.

Literary context: 'detailed character development'.

The technician gave a detailed explanation of the repair process.

Le technicien a donné une explication détaillée du processus de réparation.

Technical context: 'detailed explanation'.

The contract includes detailed clauses about termination.

Le contrat comprend des clauses détaillées sur la résiliation.

Legal context: 'detailed clauses'.

The scientist published a detailed study on climate change.

Le scientifique a publié une étude détaillée sur le changement climatique.

Scientific context: 'detailed study'.

The software comes with a detailed user manual.

Le logiciel est livré avec un manuel d'utilisation détaillé.

Technical context: 'detailed user manual'.

The witness provided a detailed account of the events.

Le témoin a fourni un récit détaillé des événements.

Common collocation: 'detailed account'.

The report provides a detailed breakdown of the project's expenses.

Le rapport fournit une ventilation détaillée des dépenses du projet.

Business context: 'detailed breakdown'.

The artist's work is known for its detailed and intricate patterns.

Le travail de l'artiste est connu pour ses motifs détaillés et complexes.

Pairing 'detailed' with 'intricate'.

The government issued a detailed response to the public's concerns.

Le gouvernement a publié une réponse détaillée aux préoccupations du public.

Political context: 'detailed response'.

The software update includes a detailed list of bug fixes.

La mise à jour du logiciel comprend une liste détaillée de corrections de bogues.

Technical context: 'detailed list'.

The historian gave a detailed lecture on the causes of the war.

L'historien a donné une conférence détaillée sur les causes de la guerre.

Academic context: 'detailed lecture'.

The survey results offer a detailed look at consumer behavior.

Les résultats de l'enquête offrent un regard détaillé sur le comportement des consommateurs.

Marketing context: 'detailed look'.

The detective followed a detailed set of clues to find the suspect.

Le détective a suivi un ensemble détaillé d'indices pour trouver le suspect.

Common phrase: 'detailed set of clues'.

The museum exhibit features a detailed reconstruction of a Viking ship.

L'exposition du musée présente une reconstitution détaillée d'un navire viking.

Adjective modifying 'reconstruction'.

The researcher provided a detailed methodology to ensure the study's replicability.

Le chercheur a fourni une méthodologie détaillée pour assurer la reproductibilité de l'étude.

Academic context: 'detailed methodology'.

The CEO's detailed vision for the company's future inspired the employees.

La vision détaillée du PDG pour l'avenir de l'entreprise a inspiré les employés.

Leadership context: 'detailed vision'.

The film is a detailed exploration of the human condition.

Le film est une exploration détaillée de la condition humaine.

Critical context: 'detailed exploration'.

The auditor conducted a detailed examination of the company's financial records.

L'auditeur a mené un examen détaillé des dossiers financiers de l'entreprise.

Financial context: 'detailed examination'.

The book offers a detailed narrative of the political upheaval in the region.

Le livre offre un récit détaillé des bouleversements politiques dans la région.

Historical context: 'detailed narrative'.

The engineer's detailed specifications were crucial for the project's success.

Les spécifications détaillées de l'ingénieur étaient cruciales pour le succès du projet.

Engineering context: 'detailed specifications'.

The lawyer presented a detailed argument in defense of his client.

L'avocat a présenté un argument détaillé pour la défense de son client.

Legal context: 'detailed argument'.

The study provides a detailed comparison between the two economic models.

L'étude fournit une comparaison détaillée entre les deux modèles économiques.

Comparative context: 'detailed comparison'.

The philosopher's detailed treatise on ethics challenged long-held beliefs.

Le traité détaillé du philosophe sur l'éthique a remis en question des croyances de longue date.

High-level academic context: 'detailed treatise'.

The forensic report provided a detailed reconstruction of the crime scene.

Le rapport médico-légal a fourni une reconstitution détaillée de la scène du crime.

Forensic context: 'detailed reconstruction'.

The novel's detailed prose creates a vivid and immersive world for the reader.

La prose détaillée du roman crée un monde vivant et immersif pour le lecteur.

Stylistic context: 'detailed prose'.

The diplomat negotiated a detailed agreement that addressed all territorial disputes.

Le diplomate a négocié un accord détaillé qui traitait de tous les différends territoriaux.

Diplomatic context: 'detailed agreement'.

The psychologist provided a detailed profile of the patient's cognitive functions.

Le psychologue a fourni un profil détaillé des fonctions cognitives du patient.

Clinical context: 'detailed profile'.

The architect's detailed rendering of the skyscraper was breathtaking.

Le rendu détaillé du gratte-ciel par l'architecte était à couper le souffle.

Architectural context: 'detailed rendering'.

The historian's detailed research uncovered previously unknown facts about the era.

Les recherches détaillées de l'historien ont révélé des faits auparavant inconnus sur l'époque.

Research context: 'detailed research'.

The detailed nuances of the contract were debated for several days.

Les nuances détaillées du contrat ont été débattues pendant plusieurs jours.

Nuanced context: 'detailed nuances'.

Common Collocations

detailed report

detailed plan

detailed analysis

detailed description

detailed instructions

detailed itinerary

detailed account

detailed information

detailed study

detailed map

Common Phrases

in detailed fashion

— Doing something in a way that includes many small parts.

He explained the process in detailed fashion.

a detailed look

— A thorough examination of something.

Let's take a detailed look at the budget.

highly detailed

— Containing an extremely large amount of information.

The model of the city was highly detailed.

sufficiently detailed

— Having enough details for a specific purpose.

The summary was sufficiently detailed for the meeting.

detailed breakdown

— A list that shows all the small parts of a total.

We need a detailed breakdown of the costs.

detailed feedback

— Specific comments on someone's work.

The teacher gave me detailed feedback on my essay.

detailed knowledge

— A deep and thorough understanding of a subject.

She has detailed knowledge of local history.

detailed examination

— A very careful and thorough check of something.

The doctor performed a detailed examination of the patient.

detailed drawing

— A picture that shows many small lines and features.

The artist made a detailed drawing of the old house.

detailed schedule

— A list of events with specific times and dates.

The conference has a very detailed schedule.

Often Confused With

detailed vs detail

Detail is a noun (a single fact), while detailed is an adjective (describing the whole thing).

detailed vs elaborate

Elaborate often implies something is complex or ornate, while detailed just means thorough.

detailed vs meticulous

Meticulous describes the person's care, while detailed describes the result of that care.

Idioms & Expressions

"the devil is in the detail"

— Small things in a plan that are often overlooked can cause big problems later.

The contract looks good, but remember that the devil is in the detail.

informal

"go into detail"

— To explain something thoroughly and include many small facts.

I don't have time to go into detail right now, but I'll tell you later.

neutral

"down to the last detail"

— Including every single small part, nothing left out.

She planned the wedding down to the last detail.

neutral

"pay attention to detail"

— To be careful and notice small things.

If you want to be a good surgeon, you must pay attention to detail.

neutral

"spare no detail"

— To tell everything, even the small or unpleasant parts.

He told the story of his trip and spared no detail.

neutral

"in minute detail"

— In a way that looks at the very smallest parts.

The witness described the suspect in minute detail.

formal

"a detail-oriented person"

— Someone who naturally notices and cares about small things.

We are looking for a detail-oriented person to join our accounting team.

neutral

"gloss over the details"

— To ignore the small facts and only talk about the big ones.

Don't gloss over the details; we need to know exactly what happened.

neutral

"lose oneself in the details"

— To become so focused on small things that you forget the main goal.

It's easy to lose oneself in the details of the project and forget the deadline.

informal

"fill in the details"

— To provide the missing information to make a story or plan complete.

He gave us the main idea, and now he's filling in the details.

neutral

Easily Confused

detailed vs comprehensive

Both mean thorough.

Comprehensive means covering all areas; detailed means having many small facts in those areas.

A comprehensive guide covers all topics; a detailed guide gives many facts about each topic.

detailed vs exhaustive

Both mean complete.

Exhaustive means nothing was left out; detailed means there is a lot of information.

An exhaustive search looks everywhere; a detailed search looks very carefully.

detailed vs intricate

Both mean complex.

Intricate focuses on the complexity of the parts; detailed focuses on the amount of information.

An intricate design is hard to draw; a detailed drawing has many lines.

detailed vs thorough

Both mean complete.

Thorough is often used for actions (a thorough cleaning); detailed is used for descriptions (a detailed report).

He did a thorough job; he wrote a detailed report.

detailed vs specific

Both mean precise.

Specific means exact and clearly defined; detailed means having many small parts.

Give me specific dates; give me a detailed history.

Sentence Patterns

The [noun] is detailed.

The map is detailed.

I have a detailed [noun].

I have a detailed plan.

She gave a detailed [noun] of [something].

She gave a detailed description of the house.

The [noun] provides a detailed breakdown of [something].

The report provides a detailed breakdown of the costs.

A detailed [noun] is essential for [something].

A detailed methodology is essential for scientific research.

The [noun] offers a detailed exploration of [abstract concept].

The film offers a detailed exploration of human grief.

It is more detailed than [something].

This map is more detailed than the old one.

He is known for his detailed [noun].

He is known for his detailed drawings.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in professional, academic, and technical English.

Common Mistakes

Using 'detail' as an adjective. → A detailed report.
'Detail' is a noun; 'detailed' is the adjective form you need.
Saying 'The book is very details.' → The book is very detailed.
You must use the adjective form 'detailed' after the verb 'to be.'
Using 'detailedly' as an adverb. → He explained it in detail.
'Detailedly' is rare and sounds unnatural; 'in detail' is much better.
Confusing 'detailed' with 'elaborate.' → A detailed plan (thorough); An elaborate plan (complex/ornate).
Choose the word that fits the level of complexity you want to describe.
Overusing 'detailed' in every sentence. → Use synonyms like 'thorough' or 'comprehensive.'
Repetition makes your writing less engaging. Use a variety of words.

Tips

Use for Clarity

Always use 'detailed' when you want to show that your work is thorough and professional.

Ask for More

If you don't understand something, ask for a 'more detailed explanation.'

Adjective Position

Remember to put 'detailed' before the noun it describes.

Synonym Choice

Use 'comprehensive' for broad topics and 'detailed' for specific ones.

Resume Tip

Mention your 'attention to detail' to impress potential employers.

Context Matters

Notice how 'detailed' is used in different fields like science, law, and art.

Avoid Overload

Don't be 'too detailed' if the situation only requires a quick summary.

Look for Clues

When you see 'detailed' in a text, expect to find many specific facts following it.

Variety

Mix 'detailed' with words like 'thorough' and 'exhaustive' to avoid repetition.

Visualizing

Think of a 'detailed' map to remember the word's meaning.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'DE-TAILED' cat. If a cat had a very long, complex tail with many patterns, it would be a 'detailed' tail. This helps you remember that 'detailed' means having many parts.

Visual Association

Imagine a high-resolution photograph where you can see every leaf on a tree. That is a 'detailed' image.

Word Web

Map Report Plan Description Analysis Instructions Account Drawing

Challenge

Try to describe your room using at least five 'detailed' sentences. Focus on the small things like the color of the curtains or the titles of the books on your shelf.

Word Origin

The word 'detailed' comes from the French word 'détailler,' which means 'to cut into pieces.' This suggests the idea of breaking a whole thing down into its smaller parts to understand it better. It entered the English language in the late 16th century.

Original meaning: To cut into pieces or to sell in small quantities (retail).

Indo-European > Italic > Romance > French > English

Cultural Context

Be careful not to use 'detailed' to describe someone's personal life in a way that feels intrusive or gossipy.

In English-speaking countries, 'attention to detail' is one of the most common phrases found on job resumes.

The phrase 'The devil is in the detail' is often attributed to the architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Sherlock Holmes is the most famous fictional character known for his detailed observations. The 'Pre-Raphaelite' painters were famous for their incredibly detailed depictions of nature.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Business Meetings

detailed agenda
detailed feedback
detailed breakdown
detailed report

Travel Planning

detailed itinerary
detailed map
detailed directions
detailed schedule

Academic Research

detailed analysis
detailed study
detailed methodology
detailed findings

Legal Documents

detailed contract
detailed clauses
detailed statement
detailed evidence

Art and Design

detailed drawing
detailed model
detailed rendering
detailed pattern

Conversation Starters

"Could you give me a detailed explanation of how this new software works?"

"What is the most detailed book you have ever read?"

"Do you prefer a detailed plan for your vacations, or do you like to be spontaneous?"

"Why is it important for a doctor to have a detailed history of their patients?"

"Can you describe your favorite painting in a detailed way?"

Journal Prompts

Write a detailed description of your favorite place in the world, focusing on the sights, sounds, and smells.

Describe a time when a detailed plan helped you achieve a difficult goal.

If you were an architect, what kind of detailed features would you include in your dream house?

Write a detailed account of your typical day, from the moment you wake up until you go to sleep.

Explain why paying attention to detail is important in your current job or field of study.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It can be both! As an adjective, it describes something (a detailed map). As a verb, it is the past tense of 'to detail' (He detailed the car).

No, that is incorrect. You should say 'very detailed' because 'detailed' is the adjective form.

'Detailed' is an adjective (a detailed report), while 'in detail' is an adverbial phrase (He explained it in detail).

It is in some dictionaries, but it is very rare. It is much better to use 'in detail' or 'in a detailed manner.'

Use 'meticulous' when you want to praise someone's extreme care and attention to detail.

Yes, if something is 'too detailed,' it might be overwhelming or boring for the audience.

The most common are report, plan, analysis, description, and instructions.

It is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal situations.

It is two syllables: DEE-tailed or dih-TAILED.

The most common opposites are vague, general, and superficial.