Details are the building blocks of information that turn a general idea into a complete, understandable picture.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Small pieces of information that build a bigger picture.
- Essential for providing clarity and depth in communication.
- Commonly used when asking for more specific explanations.
Overview
The word 'details' refers to the specific facts, features, or elements that constitute a larger subject. Whether you are describing a painting, explaining a plan, or recounting a story, details provide the necessary granularity to help the listener or reader visualize or understand the context fully. 2) Usage Patterns: 'Details' is almost always used in the plural form when referring to multiple pieces of information. It is frequently paired with verbs like 'give,' 'provide,' 'share,' or 'discuss.' You can also use it in the phrase 'in detail,' which serves as an adverbial phrase meaning 'thoroughly' or 'extensively.' 3) Common Contexts: In professional settings, you might be asked to 'provide the details' of a contract or a project. In social settings, you might ask a friend for the 'juicy details' of a story. Academically, students are often encouraged to 'include supporting details' in their essays to provide evidence for their arguments. 4) Similar Words Comparison: While 'facts' refers to objective truths, 'details' focuses on the specific components of a description. 'Specifics' is very close to 'details' but often implies a more precise or technical requirement. 'Nuances' refers to very subtle or delicate differences in meaning or expression, which are much finer than standard details.
Examples
Can you give me the details of the meeting?
everydayCan you give me the details of the meeting?
The contract includes every legal detail.
formalThe contract includes every legal detail.
Don't worry about the small details.
informalDon't worry about the small details.
The study provides intricate details regarding climate change.
academicThe study provides intricate details regarding climate change.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
in the details
hidden in the small parts
the devil is in the details
small things can cause big problems
fine details
very small or subtle points
Often Confused With
Data refers to raw facts or statistics collected for analysis. Details are descriptive components of a story or situation.
Specifics are precise points or items. They are often used interchangeably with details but emphasize accuracy and technicality.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
The word 'details' is neutral and can be used in almost any social or professional context. When used as a noun, it is pluralized. When used as a verb, it indicates the act of providing those specific points.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is saying 'give me detail' instead of 'give me the details.' Another error is using 'detail' as an adjective when 'detailed' is required, such as 'a detailed report' instead of 'a detail report.'
Tips
Use 'in detail' for thoroughness
When you want to explain something completely, use the phrase 'in detail.' It shows that you are prepared to cover every important aspect.
Don't confuse with 'details' vs 'detail'
Remember that 'details' refers to the items themselves, while 'detail' can describe the quality of being thorough. Be careful with subject-verb agreement when using the singular form.
Attention to detail is a virtue
In many Western business cultures, being someone who has 'great attention to detail' is considered a highly valuable professional trait. It implies accuracy and reliability.
Word Origin
The word comes from the Old French 'detailler,' meaning 'to cut into pieces.' This reflects the idea of breaking a large subject down into smaller, manageable parts.
Cultural Context
In many cultures, focusing on details is a sign of respect, showing that you have invested time and effort into a task. Conversely, in some contexts, focusing too much on minor details is seen as missing the 'big picture.'
Memory Tip
Think of a puzzle: the 'details' are the small individual pieces that you put together to see the full picture. If you miss a piece, the picture is incomplete.
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsNot necessarily, though it is most common in the plural. You can use the singular 'a detail' to refer to one specific element, or use the phrase 'in detail' to describe a process.
Data usually refers to raw facts, statistics, or measurements gathered for analysis. Details are the descriptive pieces of information that clarify a narrative or a situation.
Yes, 'to detail' means to describe something in great depth or itemize specific points. For example, 'The report details the company's financial losses over the last year.'
You can say, 'Could you give me more details?' or 'Can you go into more detail about that?' These are polite and standard ways to request further explanation.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct word.
Please provide all the ___ of your trip to Japan.
We need the plural noun because we are asking for multiple pieces of information.
Choose the correct meaning of 'in detail'.
What does it mean to explain something 'in detail'?
The phrase signifies a comprehensive explanation covering all parts.
Reorder the words to form a correct sentence.
the / give / can / you / details / me / ?
This follows the standard interrogative structure for requesting information.
🎉 Score: /3
Summary
Details are the building blocks of information that turn a general idea into a complete, understandable picture.
- Small pieces of information that build a bigger picture.
- Essential for providing clarity and depth in communication.
- Commonly used when asking for more specific explanations.
Use 'in detail' for thoroughness
When you want to explain something completely, use the phrase 'in detail.' It shows that you are prepared to cover every important aspect.
Don't confuse with 'details' vs 'detail'
Remember that 'details' refers to the items themselves, while 'detail' can describe the quality of being thorough. Be careful with subject-verb agreement when using the singular form.
Attention to detail is a virtue
In many Western business cultures, being someone who has 'great attention to detail' is considered a highly valuable professional trait. It implies accuracy and reliability.
Examples
4 of 4Can you give me the details of the meeting?
Can you give me the details of the meeting?
The contract includes every legal detail.
The contract includes every legal detail.
Don't worry about the small details.
Don't worry about the small details.
The study provides intricate details regarding climate change.
The study provides intricate details regarding climate change.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Phrases
Related Vocabulary
More general words
about
A1On the subject of; concerning something.
above
A2In a higher place than something or someone.
accident
A2An unfortunate event causing damage or injury.
action
A2The process of doing something, typically to achieve an aim.
after
A2Following in time or place; later than.
afterward
A2At a later or subsequent time.
again
A2Another time; once more.
aged
B1Of a specified age.
alive
A2Living, not dead.
all
A2The whole quantity or extent of something; every single one.
