Is this sentence stylistically correct? (not grammatically)

Question

I need to run this sentence by y'all.

The candidate stood out in aspects like class participation and interaction with classmates.

I have never read "stand out" being used in that way. Can you say that someone stands out in certain activities?

Am I right in my suspicion? If I am, what would be a good alternative?

This usage is common. See stand out "2. To be conspicuous, distinctive, or prominent." — user3169, Commented Mar 25, 2016 at 4:32
Yes, but have you ever read a sentence like "He stands out in a certain activity? — asef, Commented Mar 25, 2016 at 4:46
If the candidate can stand out in a crowd, s/he can stand out in other aspects as well! — Maulik V, Commented Mar 25, 2016 at 6:17
They're hardly the same thing. A crowd is the group of people in which she stands as different. An aspect, on the other hand, is a field. I may be wrong, though. — asef, Commented Mar 25, 2016 at 6:30
From COCA: This portable, at-home simulator stands out in three ways: It's fun (tee it up on digital versions of Torrey Pines, Kiawah and the Old Course). It's useful (instant swing analysis of clubhead speed, face angle, path and tempo). And it's simple to useall you need is a computer, your clubs, and high ceilings. — Maulik V, Commented Mar 25, 2016 at 7:37

Catija · Accepted Answer · 2016-05-24 13:29:58Z

1

This statement seems awkward. I would phrase it instead as:

The candidate stood out in certain aspects, like class participation and interaction with classmates.

although that still sounds a bit mawkish to my ear. I might instead just say:

The candidate stood out in class participation and interaction with classmates.

which employs more direct language.

Catija

25.4k4 gold badges63 silver badges95 bronze badges

answered Mar 25, 2016 at 8:42

Robert Munn

2491 silver badge3 bronze badges

Add a comment |

1 Answer 1