a specific material

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a specific material" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a particular type of material that is distinct from others in a given context. Example: "For this project, we need to select a specific material that meets our durability requirements."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

In dyeing operations, the dye must become closely and evenly associated with a specific material to give level (even) colouring with some measure of resistance to moisture, heat, and light i.e., fastness.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A specific material parameter fitting strategy is also introduced.

International Journal of Solids and Structures

A specific material to be tested could replace the cell-bearing glass panel.

International Journal of Implant Dentistry

This paper investigates the hoist scheduling problem, a specific material handling issue, in a manufacturing environment.

Computers & Operations Research

The new requirements are universal, i.e. they do not correspond to a specific material standard or sub-grade.

Engineering Fracture Mechanics

This article presents an empirical approach to understanding thermal stress birefringence, and includes quantitative results of a specific material study.

Displays

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

This paper reports on some advances in generic data processing procedures with focus on a specific materials discovery and design task.

Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence

Multi-energy CT is a more specific material decomposition method available for research currently, but not yet available for use in clinical practice.

Insights into Imaging

Leather is a very specific material and the way I use it, revealing hair and pores and oils that are just like ours, has a power and a point that would fall short with any other material".

Vice

PMMA is a very specific material of high modulus and low ductility [ 10].

European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology

Further research is required in order to optimise a system for specific material identification in more realistic baggage scenarios.

Crime Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about materials, be precise about the properties that make the "specific material" suitable for its intended use. Mentioning characteristics like durability, conductivity, or flexibility can add clarity and impact.

Common error

Instead of just stating "a specific material was used", specify what that material is. For example, say "a specific material, such as titanium, was used" to provide concrete information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a specific material" functions as a noun phrase, where "specific" is an adjective modifying the noun "material". It typically serves to identify or single out a certain substance with distinct properties or a designated purpose, according to Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

64%

Wiki

11%

News & Media

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a specific material" is a common and grammatically sound way to refer to a particular type of substance. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase functions as a noun phrase, often specifying materials in scientific, technical, or practical contexts. Its frequency and versatility make it a valuable component of both formal and informal communication. While alternatives like "a particular substance" or "a designated compound" exist, "a specific material" provides a clear and direct way to denote a distinct and intentional material choice. It is important to use the article "a" before specific. Source authority is generally good, and the usage is consistent across the web. Always specify after the mention which material you are talking about.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a particular substance

Replaces "material" with "substance", emphasizing the chemical composition or inherent properties.

a designated compound

Uses "compound" to refer to a substance made of multiple elements, suited for scientific contexts.

a defined element

Emphasizes the elemental nature of the material, appropriate when discussing basic chemical constituents.

a precise component

Highlights the role of the material as a part of a larger assembly or mixture.

a selected medium

Focuses on the material's role as a carrier or environment, common in scientific or artistic contexts.

a specialized stuff

"Stuff" is an informal synonym for "material" suggesting a non-technical context, and "specialized" emphasizes its unique properties.

a certain raw material

Highlights that the material is in its unprocessed form, used as input for manufacturing.

a given resource

Frames the material as a consumable input or asset, appropriate in discussions of resource management.

an exact ingredient

Refers to a material used as part of a recipe or formula, emphasizing its precise role in the mixture.

a custom blend

Specifies that the material is a mixture tailored for a specific application, indicating a precise composition.

FAQs

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

You can use "a specific material" to refer to a particular type of material being discussed. For example, "The experiment requires "a specific material" with high thermal resistance."

What's the difference between "a specific material" and "a particular material"?

While both phrases are similar, "a specific material" often implies a more precise or defined choice, whereas "a particular material" might indicate a general preference. They are largely interchangeable but "specific" emphasizes precision.

Which is correct, "a specific material" or "specific material"?

"A specific material" is grammatically correct. The article "a" is needed before "specific" when referring to one instance of a material.

What can I say instead of "a specific material"?

You can use alternatives like "a particular substance", "a designated compound", or "a precise component" depending on the context.