a little specific

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a little specific" is not standard in English and may sound awkward to some readers.
It can be used when you want to indicate that something is somewhat detailed or precise, but it is better to use it in informal contexts. Example: "I need you to be a little specific about what you want me to do."

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

"It was such a little specific thing, and I'd never heard anyone else do that before.

The New York Times

With some strong exceptions, the paintings, sculptures, photographs, videos, and installations are the standard fare of the global biennial circuit: a little specific and a lot generic, trailing scents of graduate art school.

The New Yorker

And [former CollegeHumor editor] Streeter wrote back like, 'It's a little specific for College Humor but if you make it more general we might be able to run it.' So my first article was called The Lost Art of the First Date.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

A student who arrives with little specific knowledge of the graduate program or its faculty "is bound to make a bad impression," Faubion warns.

Science Magazine

This paper investigates the methods used to define EJ communities a key analytical step for which there is little specific guidance as a potential driver of variation in observed EJ outcomes.

Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice

The regulatory code discusses safety factors in an implied way, but has little specific recommendations for riveted joints.

Engineering Failure Analysis

"Could You, uh, be a little more specific?" "You.

The New Yorker

I've been getting a little more specific.

The Guardian - Music

Who? Can you be a little more specific?

The New York Times - Magazine

Q. Can you be like a little more specific?

The New York Times

Unless the Republicans can be a little more specific, they are merely showboating.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a little specific" in informal contexts where a slightly less formal tone is appropriate. In more formal settings, consider using alternatives like "in more detail" or "with greater specificity."

Common error

Avoid using "a little specific" in academic papers, business reports, or other formal documents. Its casual tone can detract from the credibility and professionalism of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a little specific" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying an implied request or statement. It softens a demand for detail, indicating a desire for slightly more clarity. As noted by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for informal contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a little specific" is a phrase used to gently request more detail or clarity. Ludwig AI points out that, while grammatically acceptable, it's best suited for informal contexts. In professional or academic settings, consider alternatives like "in more detail" or "with greater specificity". The phrase appears mostly in "News & Media" and "Science" sources, indicating its use in explaining or analyzing information. Remember to avoid overuse in formal writing to maintain a professional tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in more detail

A common and straightforward alternative, focusing on the amount of detail.

with greater specificity

A more formal way to express the need for more detail.

somewhat detailed

Indicates a degree of detail, similar to "a little specific", but perhaps slightly more formal.

slightly more precise

Focuses on precision rather than detail, suggesting a need for greater accuracy.

a bit more concrete

Emphasizes the need for tangible or definite information, in contrast to abstract ideas.

more particularly

Emphasizes individual aspects or items, requiring more focus.

more clearly defined

Highlights the lack of definition or clarity and the need to clarify.

to a greater extent

Highlights an increase in how much more information has to be expanded to gain clarity.

elaborate further

It highlights an expansion of an idea, and does not necessarily ask for better information.

offer more particulars

Focuses on individual items of information, making the phrase less suitable for general requests.

FAQs

How can I use "a little specific" in a sentence?

You can use "a little specific" when asking for more detailed information, such as, "Could you be "a little more specific" about your requirements?"

What are some alternatives to "a little specific"?

Alternatives include "more detailed", "more precise", or "with greater specificity". The best choice depends on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it correct to say "a little specific" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a little specific" is generally considered too informal for formal writing. Opt for alternatives like "in more detail" or "with greater precision" instead.

When is it appropriate to use "a little specific"?

It's appropriate in informal conversations, casual writing, or when you want to create a relaxed tone. For example, you might say to a friend, "Can you be "a little specific" about what happened last night?"