be more explicit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be more explicit" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when asking someone to provide clearer or more detailed information on a subject. Example: "In your report, please be more explicit about the methodology you used for your research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But that should be more explicit.

The Economist

Mr. Chen refused to be more explicit.

The New York Times

It couldn't be more explicit.

The New York Times - Books

Couldn't be more explicit about it".

The New York Times

He had to be more explicit.

The Guardian - Opinion

No contemporary writer could be more explicit.

The New Yorker

He was not asked to be more explicit.

The New Yorker

"I've been trying to challenge myself to be more explicit.

The Guardian - Music

"Now with wireless laptops, we've had to be more explicit about expectations," he said.

The New York Times - Tech

The sites were numbingly similar, and the advertisements on them couldn't be more explicit.

The New Yorker

Mark McKinnon is prepared to be more explicit about the long-term stakes.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be more explicit" in professional settings when requesting someone to provide further details on project plans or strategies.

Common error

Avoid using "be more explicit" in situations where delicacy is required. Instead, opt for a more gentle approach like "could you provide more context?" to encourage elaboration without creating discomfort.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be more explicit" functions as an imperative, primarily used to request clarification or more detailed information from the speaker. It directs the listener to provide a clearer and more unambiguous explanation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be more explicit" is a common and grammatically correct request for clearer, more detailed communication, as indicated by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in news, scientific, and formal business contexts, it serves to reduce ambiguity and enhance understanding. While direct, its neutral tone makes it suitable for professional environments. Alternatives such as "be more clear" or "provide more detail" can soften the request. Remember to use it judiciously, avoiding sensitive contexts where a gentler approach is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be more clear

Focuses on general clarity rather than specific details.

be more specific

Emphasizes providing detailed information.

be more direct

Highlights straightforward communication without ambiguity.

be more precise

Suggests a need for accuracy and exactness.

elaborate further

Asks for more detailed explanation or development of an idea.

provide more detail

Requests additional information to enhance understanding.

spell it out

Informal way of asking for a very clear and simple explanation.

clarify your statement

Demands a more unambiguous declaration of stance or opinion.

state it plainly

Highlights the need to avoid jargon or complex language.

articulate better

Focuses on the manner of expression to improve comprehension.

FAQs

How can I ask someone to "be more explicit" without sounding rude?

You can soften the request by saying "Could you "elaborate on" that a little more?" or "Could you "provide more detail" about what you mean?"

What does it mean when someone asks me to "be more explicit"?

It means they want you to be clearer and more direct in your explanation, leaving no room for ambiguity. They are asking you to "spell it out".

Is there a more formal way to say "be more explicit"?

Yes, you could say "Could you "provide a more detailed explanation"?" or "Could you "clarify your statement"?"

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "be more explicit"?

It's appropriate when you need someone to provide clear and detailed information, especially in professional or academic settings where precision is important. Avoid using it in informal settings where it may come across as too demanding. Consider saying "articulate better" or "be more clear".