as specific as a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as specific as a" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to compare the level of specificity of one thing to another, often followed by a noun that exemplifies high specificity. Example: "The instructions were as specific as a recipe for a soufflé, leaving no room for error."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

While it may seem like icons would actually broaden the search, they allow the user to get as specific as a neckline on a dress or the length of a pant leg by simply seeing the options and selecting them.

TechCrunch

To understand the perception of security attached to a particular region, we focus on the number of people surveyed that consider the region to be either secure or insecure, where the term region here might be as specific as a park or as general as a state.

Crime Science

Do poems have to be as specific as a bureaucratic form?

Huffington Post

Taken together, our results demonstrated that while multiplex MCPC assay was as specific as a classical probe-based real-time PCR assay; it could also be as sensitive as a uniplex PCR assay when combined with HAND system for primer design.

Plosone

These targets can be as specific as a mutation in a key gene or reflect downstream consequences as generic as substrate utilisation by cells.

Cancer Imaging

For the purposes of this study, subjects with single specimen titres of 1 400 or higher were considered MAT positive, but in highly endemic settings, a single MAT specimen may not be as specific as a four-fold increase between paired sera specimens.

BMC Infectious Diseases

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Every so often she hands out coupons that can be traded for rewards as free-form as a day off or as specific as an afternoon at a ballgame.

The New York Times

The resulting immunotoxin was as active and as specific as an immunotoxin consisting of a fusion protein of the same antibody fragment connected to the toxin.

Journal of Molecular Biology

This will probably never be as specific as an espresso machine.

WikiHow

Make sure the book is as specific as possible such as a book on an automobile, etc. You'll want a manual from the store but you should also try the service manual.

WikiHow

For an identified functional site, we expect that the site is as specific as possible to a function without exhibiting an overlap with other functional sites.

BioMed Research International

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance impact, use "as specific as a" when comparing varying degrees of detail. For example, "His requirements are "as specific as a" surgeon's instructions before an operation", indicating meticulousness.

Common error

Avoid following "as specific as a" with vague examples, ensure the comparison enhances clarity. For instance, instead of 'The plan was "as specific as a" good strategy', provide a tangible scenario for a clearer understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as specific as a" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It's used to describe something by comparing its level of detail or precision to a known standard. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its common usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

28%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as specific as a" is a grammatically correct and frequently used comparative phrase that enhances clarity by emphasizing the level of detail or precision. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's suitable for various contexts and adds a comparative element by linking it to something known to the reader. To make the most of this phrase, ensure you follow it with a concrete example. Be mindful of avoiding abstract references for clearer understanding. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its wide acceptance and utility in conveying specificity effectively. The register is mostly neutral, making it versatile for different types of writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as detailed as a

Focuses on the level of detail provided rather than just specificity.

as precise as a

Highlights accuracy and exactness instead of general specificity.

as exact as a

Emphasizes the accuracy without room for variance.

as accurate as a

Stresses the correctness and truthfulness.

as particular as a

Emphasizes the detailed and individual nature.

as minute as a

Indicates something very small or detailed.

as circumscribed as a

Implies limitations and precision in scope.

as well-defined as a

Focuses on the clarity and definition of something.

as explicit as a

Emphasizes clarity and openness, leaving no room for interpretation.

as clear-cut as a

Stresses the lack of ambiguity.

FAQs

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

Use "as specific as a" to compare the level of detail or precision of something to a well-known example. For instance, "The directions were "as specific as a map"", implying detailed instructions.

What are some alternatives to "as specific as a"?

You can use alternatives like "as detailed as a", "as precise as a", or "as exact as a" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "as specific as a"?

Yes, "as specific as a" is grammatically correct. It's a comparative phrase used to indicate a high degree of detail or precision. For example, "The contract was "as specific as a legal document"".

What's the difference between "as specific as a" and "as detailed as a"?

While both phrases convey a high level of information, "as specific as a" emphasizes precision and exactness, while "as detailed as a" focuses on the amount of information provided. Consider the context to choose the most appropriate phrase.