a specific method

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a specific method" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a particular technique or approach in a given context, such as research, problem-solving, or instruction. Example: "In this study, we will employ a specific method to analyze the data collected from the participants."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

All the materials are malleable, and all her sculptures are based on a specific method of folding, through which she turns flat, surfaces into three-dimensional vessels.

The New York Times

"A specific method for that kind of intervention is the idea of media literacy — teaching people to consciously evaluate the advertising messages that are all around them".

The New York Times - Health

For example, a farmer who undertakes to boost his soil's carbon content by changing his grazing practices or by increasing organic compost has to nominate a specific method to achieve the improvement.

The Guardian

While the White House does not have a specific method in mind, health economists have suggested that one such trigger could be a limit on Medicare payments to doctors and hospitals.

The New York Times - Health

By the time of the Khaljīs (1290 1320), a specific method and idiom, called the Pashtun style, had been established in Islamic architecture.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But the fact is that you are not a serious presidential candidate in 2012 unless you have a specific method to reform these programs.

The New York Times

Dr. Moreno-Mateos plans to investigate the connection between the slow recovery of carbon storage and plants, and to seek a specific method that will expedite their restoration.

The New York Times

A patent on a gene itself, rather than on a specific method of examining one, is almost impossible to innovate around, for one thing.

The Economist

The President, you'll note, did not call for a specific method to achieve an open Internet.

TechCrunch

"You have method-level access [on iOS]…and let's say you know a specific method causes a crash," he explains.

TechCrunch

It simultaneously lets me create and explore without being tied to a specific method.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In scientific writing, ensure that when you refer to "a specific method", you provide sufficient detail for reproducibility. This includes tools, materials, and environmental conditions.

Common error

Avoid vaguely mentioning "a specific method" without elaborating on its key components or distinguishing features. Always provide enough information so that readers can understand and, if necessary, replicate the method.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a specific method" functions as a noun phrase, where "specific" modifies the noun "method". It often acts as the subject or object of a sentence, indicating a particular technique or approach being discussed. Ludwig examples show its versatility in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

51%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a specific method" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to denote a particular technique or approach. As indicated by Ludwig, it is suitable for diverse contexts, ranging from scientific research to news reporting. While alternatives such as "a particular technique" or "a defined approach" exist, "a specific method" offers a clear and direct way to emphasize the defined nature of the method. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by elaborating on the method's key components. Predominantly used in science, news and formal settings, this expression has a formal tone. Overall, "a specific method" is a versatile and reliable phrase for precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a particular technique

This alternative emphasizes the technique aspect more than the method itself. Focus is on "how" things are done.

a defined approach

This alternative suggests a more structured and planned way of doing things, which is a slight shift from just method.

a precise procedure

This implies a higher degree of accuracy and detail in the method, suitable for scientific or technical contexts.

a distinct methodology

This alternative is more formal and often used in academic or research settings.

a tailored strategy

This emphasizes that the method is adapted for a particular purpose or situation.

a customized process

Similar to 'tailored strategy', this highlights the adaptation of the method to individual needs.

a detailed system

Suggests a more elaborate and organized method than just a single technique.

a set protocol

Indicates that the method is standardized and must be followed in a certain way.

a specialized avenue

Highlights that the method is designed for a certain purpose and is therefore specialized.

a fixed solution

Implies the method always leads to the same outcome and is not very flexible.

FAQs

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

You can use "a specific method" when you want to refer to a particular way of achieving a goal or performing a task. For example, "The scientist employed "a specific method" to analyze the data."

What are some alternatives to "a specific method"?

Some alternatives to "a specific method" include "a particular technique", "a defined approach", or "a precise procedure". The best choice depends on the context and the level of detail you want to convey.

When should I use "a specific method" instead of "a method"?

Use "a specific method" when you want to emphasize that you are referring to a particular, well-defined method as opposed to a general or unspecified method. This highlights the chosen approach.

Is it redundant to say "a specific method"?

While technically "specific" implies a defined method, using "a specific method" can add emphasis and clarity, especially when contrasting it with general approaches or undefined techniques. It clarifies that you are not discussing generalities but a particular, well-defined process.