but specifically

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but specifically" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to counter a general statement and replace it with a more specific one. For example: "My grandmother loves all desserts, but specifically loves cheesecake."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"But specifically, here there isn't a risk".

The New York Times

But specifically, a working-class actor".

The Guardian - Film

Nope! "Mexico," yes; but specifically OAXACA.

The New York Times

The subpoenas are broadly written but specifically request these documents.

The New York Times

"But specifically, we're trying to increase the number of minority donors.

The New York Times - Sports

Chinese Christian resistance is not generally political but specifically for religious freedom and self-determination.

The Guardian - Opinion

And not just any women, but specifically print and radio journalists.

The Guardian

The WHA effectively supported not only access to medicines but, specifically, compulsory licensing.

The Guardian

Lately, it's not just social work that's been under attack, but specifically social work education.

The Guardian

Surprisingly, there's strength in the Unix area, but specifically just with Sun.

The New York Times

But specifically on the street I work with my colleague Majeed Hadman, known as a "fixer".

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but specifically" to narrow down a broad statement, providing clarity and focus. This helps in avoiding ambiguity and ensuring your message is precise.

Common error

Avoid using "but specifically" when the specificity is already implied in the context. Overusing it can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but specifically" functions as an adverbial phrase used to introduce a more detailed or precise explanation following a general statement. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples demonstrating this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

26%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but specifically" is a grammatically correct and versatile adverbial phrase used to introduce a more detailed or precise explanation, effectively narrowing the scope of a preceding general statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions to provide clarification and focus. While predominantly found in News & Media, Science, and Academia, its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure it genuinely adds value by emphasizing a particular detail rather than becoming redundant. Consider alternatives like "more precisely" or "in particular" for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more precisely

Emphasizes greater accuracy and detail in the subsequent statement.

in particular

Highlights a particular aspect or element from a broader context.

to be exact

Introduces a more precise or accurate version of a previous statement.

more accurately

Indicates a correction or refinement of a prior statement for improved accuracy.

namely

Introduces a specific example or item to clarify a general statement.

in detail

Signals that a more detailed explanation or description will follow.

to specify

Indicates an intention to provide more specific information.

for instance

Introduces a specific example to illustrate a general point.

by way of clarification

Signals an intention to make something clearer or more understandable.

put another way

Offers an alternative explanation or perspective on a previous statement.

FAQs

How can I use "but specifically" in a sentence?

Use "but specifically" to introduce a more precise detail or condition that clarifies a general statement. For instance, "I enjoy fruits, "but specifically" apples and bananas".

What phrases are similar to "but specifically"?

Alternatives include "in particular", "more precisely", or "namely", which can add variety to your writing while maintaining a similar meaning.

Is it always necessary to use "but specifically" after a general statement?

No, it's not always necessary. Use "but specifically" only when you want to emphasize or clarify a particular aspect of the general statement. Sometimes, the context already implies the specificity.

What is the difference between "but specifically" and "especially"?

"But specifically" is used to narrow down a general category to a particular item or detail. "Especially", on the other hand, emphasizes something that is particularly noteworthy or stands out within a category. They are not always interchangeable.