Question 1

What does "the devil is in the details" mean?

Accepted Answer

Small, seemingly insignificant details are often the most important and problematic aspects of a plan.

Question 2

How do you use "the devil is in the details" in a sentence?

Accepted Answer

The contract looked fine at first glance, but the devil is in the details.

Question 3

Is "the devil is in the details" formal or informal?

Accepted Answer

"the devil is in the details" is register-neutral — appropriate in both casual and formal contexts. Used in business, law, and planning to warn against overlooking the fine print or technicalities.