detail

Definition of detailnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun detail contrast with its synonyms?

The words item and particular are common synonyms of detail. While all three words mean "one of the distinct parts of a whole," detail applies to one of the small component parts of a larger whole such as a task, building, painting, narration, or process.

leave the details to others

When could item be used to replace detail?

In some situations, the words item and detail are roughly equivalent. However, item applies to each thing specified separately in a list or in a group of things that might be listed or enumerated.

every item on the list

When might particular be a better fit than detail?

While in some cases nearly identical to detail, particular stresses the smallness, singleness, and especially the concreteness of a detail or item.

a description that included few particulars

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of detail The shirt featured gathered detailing along the side while the skirt was detailed with slashes and sheer lace panels. Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 28 May 2026 Tour immersive exhibits detailing life from the Reconstruction era right up to the human rights challenges still facing us globally today. Elizabeth Green, AJC.com, 28 May 2026 Grimm’s autobiographical children’s book details his history-making journey as a young transgender activist. Carly Tagen-Dye, PEOPLE, 28 May 2026 Expect to see at least a few products at Computex based on this new silicon; Intel has announced the new processors just before the show, and Acer has detailed one model, the Acer Predator Atlas 8. Brian Westover, PC Magazine, 28 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for detail
Recent Examples of Synonyms for detail
Noun
  • Elk and bear tooth pendants were also common items of ornamentation, and important community members were buried with those adornments.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 10 June 2026
  • The items range from lavish gowns to magazine covers to books, letters and keepsakes.
    USA TODAY Network, USA Today, 10 June 2026
Noun
  • In fact, Staal became the fourth player in the expansion era (since 1968) to record a goal in the first four games of a Cup Final.
    Michael Russo, New York Times, 10 June 2026
  • In fact, what’s the point of a short story at all?
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 10 June 2026
Noun
  • Her face, usually settled into a general look of detachment, would take on deeply significant expressions, all revolving around a plea for forgiveness.
    Andrea Bajani, New Yorker, 7 June 2026
  • Luna spends the day in the socially conscious sign of Aquarius, shifting the emotional tone toward intellect, perspective, eccentricity and detachment.
    Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 5 June 2026
Noun
  • During the four-month primary campaign, Raman offered withering critiques of Bass’ first term, saying the mayor failed to act with urgency on homelessness, apartment construction, street repairs and the exodus of entertainment jobs from the region.
    Noah Goldberg, Los Angeles Times, 8 June 2026
  • Thomas was then promoted to the top job in March 2025, with the title of design director.
    Laure Guilbault, Vogue, 8 June 2026
Verb
  • As a paralegal in the JAG Corps, he was stationed in the largest military jurisdiction in the Asia Pacific and the Middle East.
    K.H. Koehler, USA Today, 8 June 2026
  • The Air WACs [Women’s Army Corps] stationed here were elated but subdued.
    Orlando Sentinel Staff, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 June 2026
Verb
  • Lackey was named the 2026 Johnny Bench Award winner as the best collegiate catcher in Division I on Tuesday.
    Gabriel Burns, AJC.com, 10 June 2026
  • Duran held world championships in four weight classes and was named the Fighter of the Decade for the 1970s by American sports publication The Sporting News.
    Elias Burke, New York Times, 10 June 2026
Verb
  • An Anduril listing on the public markets is a long-running subject of speculation.
    Lily Mae Lazarus, Fortune, 9 June 2026
  • His bond was listed as $17,500.
    Dennis Romero, NBC news, 9 June 2026
Noun
  • The state patrol says alcohol wasn't involved and both women were wearing their seat belts.
    WCCO Staff, CBS News, 10 June 2026
  • The officers then raced Lucy to Elliott Key, trading turns with chest compressions en route in their speeding patrol boat as a Miami-Dade Fire Rescue helicopter was waiting to take her to a hospital.
    David Goodhue, Miami Herald, 10 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Detail.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/detail. Accessed 11 Jun. 2026.

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