ask for specifics

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ask for specifics" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want someone to provide detailed information or clarification about a topic or issue. Example: "If you're unsure about the project requirements, don't hesitate to ask for specifics during the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Ask for specifics like size, medium and quantity as well as checking that all-important deadline.

The Guardian

Everyone with bad service loves to complain, but ask for specifics like dropped calls or inability to get a signal.

The New York Times - Tech

Ask for specifics - people often fear the process of dying and worry how those they love will manage afterwards.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Location: Be sure to ask for specifics about the location, including the kind of details you may not be able to tell just from looking at a map, Mr. de Belloy said.

The New York Times

Ask for specifics.

Huffington Post

VICE News reached out to the security service to ask for specifics about the studies.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

(The Senate forms do not ask for specific figures).

The New York Times

"The hopes that I have is for transparency, that they ask for specific details," Dr. Perez said.

The New York Times

The administration has promised to provide information on detainees when the time comes to ask for specific resettlements in Europe.

The New York Times

Mr. Perry's aides did not ask for specific dollar commitments at the meeting, participants said, but several volunteered anyway.

The New York Times

Even if you use regular Blackwood, employing five no-trump to ask for specific kings is better than asking quantitatively for kings.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When requesting information, use "ask for specifics" to signal a need for detailed, rather than general, responses. This helps to avoid vague answers and ensures you receive the precise data required.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on broad questions. By not using "ask for specifics", you risk receiving generic information that doesn't address your actual needs. Always be precise to get relevant responses.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ask for specifics" functions as an imperative, urging someone to request detailed information. This is evident in Ludwig, where it's used in contexts ranging from university portfolio advice to discussing end-of-life care.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ask for specifics" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed directive to request detailed information across diverse fields. As confirmed by Ludwig, it appears commonly in News & Media and Wiki contexts. To ensure clarity and avoid vague responses, implementing "ask for specifics" is crucial in both professional and personal communications. Remember to use this phrase when detailed information is needed, and be mindful of its neutral-to-professional register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

request detailed information

Focuses on the act of formally requesting information that is detailed.

inquire about the details

Highlights the act of inquiring and emphasizes the importance of details.

seek clarification on particular points

Emphasizes seeking clarity on specific items.

demand precise information

Indicates a strong need or requirement for accurate information.

elicit comprehensive data

Focuses on extracting thorough and complete data.

probe for exact figures

Suggests a deeper investigation to obtain exact figures.

ascertain specific facts

Emphasizes the act of finding out or confirming particular facts.

investigate particular aspects

Highlights a careful and detailed inquiry into aspects.

look into particular aspects

Highlights a careful and detailed inquiry into aspects.

get the finer points

Focuses on obtaining subtle or detailed aspects.

FAQs

How can I use "ask for specifics" in a sentence?

You can use "ask for specifics" when you need detailed information. For example, "If you're unclear about the project scope, "ask for specifics" regarding deliverables and timelines."

What's an alternative to "ask for specifics"?

Alternatives include "request detailed information", "inquire about the details", or "seek clarification on particular points" depending on the context.

Is it better to "ask for specifics" or "ask for details"?

Both phrases are similar. "Ask for specifics" emphasizes the need for precise and particular information, while "ask for details" is a more general request for more information.

When is it appropriate to "ask for specifics"?

It is appropriate to "ask for specifics" in situations where you need clear, precise, and detailed information to avoid ambiguity or misunderstandings. This is useful in professional, academic, and personal contexts.