a specific category

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a specific category" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a distinct group or classification within a broader context. Example: "In our research, we focused on a specific category of plants that thrive in arid environments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It does include a specific category for the offence.

The Guardian

She is an image of a specific category of ancestor, one recently dead.

The New York Times - Arts

In some cases, firms have eliminated Internet coverage as a specific category altogether.

The New York Times

There isn't a specific category for the job in Labor Department data.

The New York Times

The award recognizes a team player whose accomplishments extend beyond the guidelines of a specific category.

Cornell University

Assign each student in each group to focus on a specific category of investigation — the ship, politics, economy and people.

The New York Times

It is not tailored to a specific company, but to a specific category of company -- those in the "emerging" stage.

The New York Times

Another third were told they should work on a specific category with a specific marker.

The New York Times - Books

"And they want to be able to put you in an already recognized niche so your CD can be filed under a specific category in the record store".

The New York Times

But, in the absence of this being a specific category in criminal statistics, these cases don't amount to indicators about the prevalence of online abuse.

The Guardian

And from Tuesday through Dec. 21, Macys.com will offer free shipping for a specific category of gifts each day, like fragrances or cookware.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a specific category", ensure that the context clearly defines the boundaries and characteristics of that category to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a specific category" when a more precise term or classification is available. Using a more descriptive term enhances clarity and precision in your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a specific category" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. It indicates a particular type or class within a broader set. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a specific category" is a versatile noun phrase used to denote a particular type or class. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable across diverse contexts, ranging from news and media to scientific and business domains. Its primary function is to classify and distinguish items, ideas, or entities. While applicable in formal writing, it is advisable to use more precise terms whenever possible to enhance clarity. Related phrases such as "a particular classification" or "a defined group" can serve as alternatives depending on the specific nuance you intend to convey. Always ensure that the category's boundaries are well-defined to prevent ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a particular classification

Replaces "specific category" with "particular classification", focusing on the act of categorizing.

a defined group

Substitutes "specific category" with "defined group", emphasizing the clear boundaries of the group.

a certain type

Uses "certain type" instead of "specific category", highlighting the characteristic nature of the group.

a designated class

Replaces "specific category" with "designated class", suggesting a more formal or structured grouping.

a particular genre

Employs "particular genre" instead of "specific category", often used in the context of art, literature, or music.

a select group

Uses "select group" instead of "specific category", implying a choice or preference in the selection of the group.

a distinct classification

Substitutes "specific category" with "distinct classification", emphasizing the uniqueness of the categorization.

a specialized area

Replaces "specific category" with "specialized area", often used when referring to fields of expertise or study.

a targeted demographic

Uses "targeted demographic" instead of "specific category", particularly relevant in marketing or social studies contexts.

a niche market

Replaces "specific category" with "niche market", typically used in business to denote a specialized segment of the market.

FAQs

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

You can use "a specific category" to refer to a particular group or classification within a broader context. For example, "This product falls into "a specific category" of organic foods".

What are some alternatives to using "a specific category"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a particular classification", "a defined group", or "a certain type".

Is it better to be more specific than using "a specific category"?

Yes, whenever possible, using a more precise term will enhance clarity. Instead of saying "a specific category of vehicles", you might say "sports cars" or "electric vehicles", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a specific category" in formal writing?

"A specific category" is appropriate in formal writing when you need to refer to a well-defined group or class, but it's important to ensure the category is clear to the reader. If the context is unclear, provide a definition or example.