To be more specific

USAGE SUMMARY

"To be more specific" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to provide more clarifying information or add more details to what you have already said. For example, you could say "I have a few concerns about the project - to be more specific, I'm worried about our timeline and budget."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To be more specific, he needs to see more dance.

The New York Times - Arts

To be more specific, it washed up on Johnson's Facebook page, liked by 55 million people.

The Guardian - Film

To be more specific, we take a simple example.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

To be more specific, Grant's character owns a travel bookstore.

Vice

To be more specific, a pink Gameboy Color.

Huffington Post

To be more specific, adorable golden retriever puppies.

Huffington Post

To be more specific - critics of my work.

Huffington Post

Senator McCain declined to be more specific.

The New York Times

She declined to be more specific.

The New York Times

Mr. Gillinson declined to be more specific.

The New York Times - Arts

Related declined to be more specific.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to be more specific" to introduce clarifying details or examples immediately after a general statement. This helps maintain clarity and prevents confusion.

Common error

Avoid using "to be more specific" excessively in a single piece of writing. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful. Instead, vary your approach by using synonyms like "more precisely" or "for instance".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be more specific" functions as a transitional phrase. It signals the speaker or writer's intention to provide further clarification or details on a previously mentioned point. Ludwig provides numerous examples to illustrate its function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to be more specific" is a versatile phrase used to introduce clarifying details or examples. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. It functions as a transitional phrase, enhancing understanding and preventing ambiguity. While appropriate for various contexts, overuse should be avoided. Consider alternatives like "more precisely" or "for instance" to add variety to your writing. Remember to use it strategically to improve clarity and maintain reader engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

More precisely

Focuses on accuracy and exactness in the subsequent explanation.

In detail

Suggests a more thorough and elaborate explanation will follow.

To clarify

Indicates that the speaker aims to make something easier to understand.

For instance

Introduces a specific example to illustrate a point.

Specifically speaking

Emphasizes that the following information will be very targeted and relevant.

In other words

Offers a rephrasing for better understanding.

To put it another way

Provides an alternative phrasing for the preceding statement.

Let me elaborate

Signals an intention to provide more detailed information.

By way of explanation

Suggests that an explanation will be provided to clarify something.

To give you more context

Aims to provide more background information.

FAQs

How can I use "to be more specific" in a sentence?

Use "to be more specific" to introduce a more detailed explanation or example following a general statement. For example, "I have concerns about the project; to be more specific, I'm worried about the budget."

What are some alternatives to saying "to be more specific"?

Alternatives include "more precisely", "in detail", or "to clarify" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever incorrect to use "to be more specific"?

While grammatically correct, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Use it judiciously, and consider alternative phrases for variety. Overusing in a short text makes it less impactful.

What's the difference between "to be more specific" and "for example"?

"To be more specific" generally introduces additional clarifying details, while "for example" introduces a specific instance that illustrates a broader point. "To be more specific" narrows the focus, while "for example" exemplifies.