I specified that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I specified that" is correct and is usually used in written English on official documents or in formal emails.
For example: "I specified that all applicants must have relevant experience in order to apply for this position."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

When I originally wrote this recipe, for a 1999 Minimalist column, I specified that you should use thin asparagus.

The New York Times

I placed orders at five sites -- 1-800-flowers.com 1-800-flowers.com 1-800-flowers.com www.1800flowers.com), Flowerbud.comm (www.flowerbud.comm), proFreshroses.comwww.freshroses.com and Calyx and Corolla (www.calyxandcorolla.com) -- that deliver nationwide, and I sproflowers.comthey be sent to her in Arizona.

The New York Times - Tech

I told the operator my name, location, age and medical condition; that I needed a nonemergency ambulance; and I specified that they would need a litter to get me back up the hill.

The New York Times

On my ticket application I specified that I am visually impaired.

BBC

So if I specified that I like Tory Burch shoes and clothes, MyPerfectSale would send me daily emails with links to items on sale from the designer from around the web.

TechCrunch

I placed a second order, and this time my preferred store showed the iPad as being available for pickup today, so I specified that location.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Daughters only, I admit: did I specify that I best abide members of my own species ten years or older, and female?

Huffington Post

Nor did it specify that Islamic State was a primary target.

Los Angeles Times

And he provided this analogy:If I ask for pizza from Pizza Hut for lunch but clarify that I would be fine with a pizza from Domino's, and I then specify that I want ham and pepperoni on my pizza from Pizza Hut, my friend who returns from Domino's with a ham and pepperoni pizza has still complied with a literal construction of my lunch order.

The Economist

However, Article I specifies that only Congress has the power to declare war.

Huffington Post

No proposals were specified that would generate that path.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I specified that" to clearly communicate a detail or requirement that you have explicitly stated. It adds a level of formality and clarity to your writing, making it suitable for professional communications.

Common error

Avoid using "I specified that" in informal contexts where simpler alternatives like "I said that" or "I mentioned that" would be more appropriate. Overly formal language can make your writing sound unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I specified that" functions as a declarative statement, indicating that the speaker made a clear and explicit statement or requirement. As shown by Ludwig, it often introduces a piece of information that the speaker wants to emphasize or clarify.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I specified that" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to emphasize a previously stated requirement or detail. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is often used in professional and formal writing to ensure clarity and avoid misunderstandings. While versatile, "I specified that" should be used judiciously, as overly formal language can sound unnatural in certain contexts. When a less formal tone is desired, alternatives such as "I mentioned that" or "I stated that" can provide a more appropriate tone. Ludwig's examples illustrate its frequency across News & Media and Science, highlighting its relevance in ensuring precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I stated that

A direct and simple alternative, suitable when the emphasis is on the act of making a statement.

I indicated that

Replaces "specified" with a more general term for pointing something out, suitable for a broader range of contexts.

I stipulated that

Implies setting a condition or requirement, adding a layer of obligation or agreement not present in "specified".

I clarified that

Suggests removing ambiguity or making something easier to understand, focusing on the act of making something clear.

I set forth that

A more formal alternative, often used in legal or official contexts to present information in a structured way.

I prescribed that

Suggests laying down rules or directions with some authority.

I mentioned that

Offers a more casual way of saying something was brought up, lacking the formality of "specified".

I detailed that

Implies providing a lot of information, adding an element of thoroughness that isn't necessarily present with "specified".

I pointed out that

Emphasizes drawing attention to a particular detail or fact, changing the focus slightly from the act of specifying.

I decreed that

A stronger term implying an official order or command, suitable for situations with significant authority.

FAQs

What does "I specified that" mean?

The phrase "I specified that" means that you clearly and explicitly stated a particular detail or requirement. It implies that you made something known in a precise or definite manner.

When is it appropriate to use "I specified that" in writing?

Use "I specified that" in situations where clarity and precision are important, such as in formal emails, official documents, or professional reports. It is useful when you want to emphasize that you made a clear and deliberate statement.

What are some alternatives to "I specified that"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "I indicated that", "I stated that", "I mentioned that", or "I clarified that". Choose the alternative that best fits the nuance you want to convey.

Is "I specified that" too formal for casual conversations?

Yes, "I specified that" can sound overly formal in casual conversations. In informal settings, simpler phrases like "I said that" or "I told them that" are usually more appropriate.