a specific reason

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a specific reason" is correct and can be used in written English.
The phrase can be used when one wishes to give an explanation or justification for an action. For example, "I am late to work today for a specific reason."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He resigned almost exactly a year ago without giving a specific reason.

The Washington Post

There is a specific reason for this.

The New York Times

"Nobody gave a specific reason," he said.

The New York Times

A specific reason to follow up.

Harvard Business Review

I mention that for a specific reason.

Yale University

There is a specific reason for this ad hoc arrangement.

The New Yorker

"Now, you need a specific reason to come in".

The New York Times

He gives interviews when he has a specific reason to do so.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Savitt: "Did you make that up for a specific reason?" Mr. Thompson: "Just talking".

The New York Times

Neither Mr. Huckabee nor the company gave a specific reason for the move.

The New York Times

He did not mention Blackwater or Iraq, nor cite a specific reason for leaving.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a specific reason", ensure the reason is clearly articulated and relevant to the context. Avoid ambiguity by providing sufficient details.

Common error

Avoid using "a specific reason" without elaborating. Leaving the reason unstated can create confusion and weaken your argument. Always follow up with the details.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a specific reason" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as an object of a preposition or a complement to a verb. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

27%

Science

21%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a specific reason" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Its primary function is to introduce a particular cause or justification. It is suitable for various contexts, especially in news, academic, and scientific writing. When using this phrase, ensure that the specific reason is clearly articulated to avoid ambiguity. By following these guidelines, you can effectively communicate your intended meaning using "a specific reason".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a particular motive

Focuses on the underlying drive or intention behind an action, slightly emphasizing the intentionality.

a definite cause

Highlights the clear and identifiable origin or source of an event or situation.

a distinct purpose

Emphasizes the clarity and uniqueness of the goal or objective.

a concrete basis

Stresses the tangible and verifiable nature of the reason.

a valid rationale

Implies a logical and justifiable explanation.

a precise justification

Indicates a detailed and accurate explanation or defense.

a compelling ground

Suggests a forceful and persuasive reason.

an explicit explanation

Highlights the clear and unambiguous nature of the reasoning.

a well-defined cause

Focuses on the clarity and precision of the reason or origin.

a known incentive

Highlights the motivation and predictability of the reason.

FAQs

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

Use "a specific reason" to introduce a particular cause or motive for an action or decision. For example, "I chose this university for "a specific reason": its renowned research program."

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

You can use alternatives like "a particular motive", "a definite cause", or "a distinct purpose" depending on the context.

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

"A specific reason" is generally preferred as it provides better grammatical structure and clarity. "Specific reason" without the article "a" can sound awkward in many contexts.

What's the difference between "a specific reason" and "a general reason"?

"A specific reason" refers to a particular and well-defined cause, while "a general reason" refers to a more broad or non-particular cause. The former implies precision and detail, the latter, a lack of focus.