be particular about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be particular about" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is used to indicate that something should be done with exactness or detail. For example: "I'm going to be particular about making sure that the kitchen is immaculate before we have guests arrive."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

He has also come to be particular about baseballs themselves.

The New Yorker

Paris may be particular about foreign takeovers, but French companies have been active in acquiring American companies over the years.

The New York Times

On set at the Embassy, he sensed that Assange, who can be particular about how his likeness is disseminated, felt safe.

The New Yorker

More important, he knew his clientele in intimate detail, which allowed him to be particular about what he sold and to whom.

The New Yorker

So the receiver need not be particular about his choice of messenger to deliver the encrypting key.

Forbes

He says they're flexible on that, however — meaning that if better external tools become available, Zoom.ia is not going to be particular about the source of their assistant's smarts.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

The Dutch were particular about behavior.

The New Yorker

Mosquitoes are particular about their habitats.

The New York Times

"I'm particular about the slaughter.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The Azzurri have always been particular about their pasta.

The Guardian - Sport

Jomaa is particular about the way things happen at Zeriab.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be particular about", ensure that the specific area of focus or preference is clearly stated to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "He is particular", specify "He is particular about the lighting in his photographs".

Common error

Avoid using "be particular about" without providing sufficient context. Overusing this phrase without clear explanations can make your writing seem vague or pretentious. Always specify what you are particular about to maintain clarity and engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be particular about" functions as a verb phrase that describes someone's preferences or attention to detail. It indicates a level of selectivity or specific criteria that someone applies to a situation, as Ludwig AI confirms through various examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be particular about" is a verb phrase used to indicate someone's preferences or attention to detail. Ludwig AI confirms that is grammatically correct. It appears most frequently in News & Media and Wiki contexts and has a neutral register, making it suitable for various settings. While not extremely common, it is well-understood and adds a layer of specificity to writing. When using this phrase, clarity is key; always specify what one is particular about to avoid vagueness. Consider alternative phrases like "be meticulous regarding" or "have strong preferences for" depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be meticulous regarding

Replaces "particular" with "meticulous" to emphasize thoroughness and precision, while "regarding" substitutes "about".

be exacting concerning

Uses "exacting" instead of "particular" to highlight strict requirements, and "concerning" replaces "about".

be discerning in

Focuses on having refined taste and judgment, changing the nature of selectivity.

have strong preferences for

Shifts the focus to having distinct likes and dislikes instead of specifying a focus on detail.

be selective with

Highlights the act of choosing carefully, implying a specific set of criteria.

pay close attention to

Emphasizes careful observation and consideration, rather than strictness or pickiness.

have specific requirements for

Highlights the need for certain conditions to be met, shifting the focus to needs.

insist on precision in

Emphasizes demanding accuracy, rather than just caring about it.

place importance on details of

Shifts the focus to valuing specific elements, rather than expressing personal preference.

be conscientious of

Suggests being motivated by one's moral sense of right and wrong instead of by preferences

FAQs

How do I use "be particular about" in a sentence?

Use "be particular about" to express strong preferences or attention to detail regarding something. For example, "She is particular about the coffee she drinks" or "They are particular about the cleanliness of their workspace".

What can I say instead of "be particular about"?

You can use alternatives like "be meticulous regarding", "have strong preferences for", or "pay close attention to" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "be particular about" or "be specific about"?

While both phrases indicate a level of detail, "be particular about" implies a personal preference or strict standard, while "be specific about" simply means providing detailed information. The best choice depends on the intended meaning.

What does it mean to "be particular about" something?

To "be particular about" something means to have very specific preferences or requirements regarding it, often indicating a high level of attention to detail or a discerning taste.