a specific sequence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a specific sequence" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a particular order or arrangement of items, events, or actions that is defined or distinct. Example: "To solve the puzzle, you must follow a specific sequence of moves to unlock the next level."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The low amino acid sequence similarity between TRDs explains the specificity of a particular MTase for a specific sequence [9].

Plosone

Here we found a specific sequence of Aspergillus 28S-ITS2 for qPCR that offers good sensitivity and specificity.

BMC Infectious Diseases

Performing a "classic" album is predicated on enacting a series of songs previously experienced in a specific sequence.

The Guardian - Music

The method depends on adaptors that bind to a specific sequence of the four DNA letters on the tail of each bead's gene.

The New York Times - Science

One thing the investigation has not done yet is find a specific sequence of failures that could have brought the towers down.

The New York Times - Science

Instead, he says, the report will zero in on a specific sequence of events that preceded the crash.

The New York Times

Earlier methods for obtaining a specific sequence of DNA in quantities sufficient for study were difficult, time-consuming, and expensive.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The booby-trapped text message presented characters – including those from Arabic, Chinese and Marathi – in a specific sequence that choked Apple's CoreText system, crashing the recipient's device and leaving them unable to access their messages.

The Guardian - Tech

In antisense technology, a short series of nucleotides recognizes a specific sequence on an mRNA strand, preventing it from being translated into a protein and blocking expression of a gene.

The New York Times - Science

When presented with non-Latin characters in a specific sequence – including those from Arabic, Chinese and Marathi – the CoreText system chokes, causing it to fail and bring the entire operating system to a halt.

The Guardian - Tech

A specific sequence of events characterizes species.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a specific sequence", ensure the context clearly indicates what constitutes the sequence. For example, specify whether it refers to steps in a process, nucleotides in DNA, or events in a narrative.

Common error

Avoid using "a specific sequence" without providing sufficient context. Clearly define what elements comprise the sequence; otherwise, your writing will lack clarity and precision. For example, instead of saying 'The experiment requires a specific sequence,' specify 'The experiment requires a specific sequence of reagent additions'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a specific sequence" functions as a noun phrase, where "specific" modifies the noun "sequence". It commonly acts as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its correct and usable nature in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

70%

News & Media

20%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a specific sequence" is a widely used and grammatically correct phrase that highlights a particular order or arrangement. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across diverse contexts, especially in scientific and news-related domains. When using this phrase, ensure you provide sufficient context to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "a particular sequence" or "a defined sequence" can be used depending on the desired emphasis. The phrase's neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a particular sequence

Replaces "specific" with "particular", emphasizing individuality or distinctness.

a particular order

Similar to "a particular sequence", emphasizing a distinct arrangement.

a defined sequence

Emphasizes that the sequence is clearly established or determined.

a certain sequence

Indicates that the sequence is known but not necessarily explicitly stated.

a precise sequence

Highlights the accuracy and exactness of the sequence.

a determined order

Emphasizes that the order has been decided or established beforehand.

a designated sequence

Suggests that the sequence has been officially chosen or assigned.

a fixed sequence

Implies the sequence is unchangeable or predetermined.

a prescribed order

Suggests that the order is dictated by a rule or authority.

a set order

Focuses on the established arrangement or order of elements.

FAQs

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

You can use "a specific sequence" to describe a particular order or arrangement of items, events, or actions. For example: "The unlocking of the phone required "a specific sequence" of taps and swipes".

What are some alternatives to "a specific sequence"?

Some alternatives to "a specific sequence" include "a particular sequence", "a defined sequence", or "a certain sequence" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a specific sequence" or "a specific order"?

Both "a specific sequence" and "a specific order" are correct, but "sequence" is often used when referring to a series of events or steps, while "order" can be more general. The best choice depends on the specific context.

What does "a specific sequence" imply?

"A specific sequence" implies that there's a particular order or arrangement that's important or required. It suggests that deviating from that order could have consequences.