by specifying

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by specifying" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that something is being clarified or detailed through the act of specifying. Example: "The researcher improved the experiment's accuracy by specifying the exact parameters for data collection."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Statistical significance tests start by specifying a null hypothesis.

The New York Times

Each colour can be accurately defined by specifying its wavelength or frequency.

The Guardian - Arts

"A beer," I said, and then clarified by specifying the brand.

The New Yorker

This duration is found by specifying the ROC and the target altitude (h).

Nature

Other experts define a business model by specifying the main characteristics of a good one.

Harvard Business Review

The projection is done by specifying a detector instead of providing an event file.

Harvard University

Alternatively, users may reprocess their data by specifying narrower background regions in tg_extract.

Harvard University

The feasibility of reasonable implementations is addressed by specifying the semantics algorithmically.

University of California, Berkeley

This is shown by specifying their development to the isotropic case.

International Journal of Solids and Structures

The lake is simulated by specifying a high hydraulic conductivity for lake-volume grid cells.

Journal of Hydrology

What about safe-sex pamphlets intended to save lives by specifying modes of transmission?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by specifying" to clarify abstract ideas or instructions. For example, "Improve your search results by specifying keywords".

Common error

Avoid using "by specifying" when a simpler verb like "stating" or "defining" would suffice. For example, instead of "The rule was clarified by specifying no exceptions", try "The rule was clarified by stating there are no exceptions".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by specifying" typically functions as a prepositional phrase acting as an adverbial modifier. It clarifies how an action is performed or a result is achieved. Ludwig provides many examples where this phrase introduces a method or a set of conditions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

27%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by specifying" is a grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to introduce detailed explanations or requirements. Ludwig AI analysis and examples confirm that it is most frequently found in scientific, news, and academic contexts, where precision is valued. Although versatile, avoid overuse in informal contexts where simpler alternatives may be more appropriate. As Ludwig suggests, clarifying abstract ideas or instructions, or providing better search results "by specifying" more precise search terms, are instances in which "by specifying" works best.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by defining

Replaces "specifying" with "defining", focusing on the act of setting boundaries or characteristics.

by detailing

Uses "detailing" to emphasize a thorough and comprehensive description.

through specification

Nominalizes the phrase, shifting from a verb-based to a noun-based construction.

in specifying

Emphasizes the action of specifying as a means of achieving something.

when specifying

Introduces a conditional aspect, focusing on the act of specifying within a particular context or situation.

by stipulating

Replaces "specifying" with "stipulating", implying a formal or legal requirement.

by indicating

Uses "indicating" to suggest a more general act of pointing out or showing.

through precise definition

Emphasizes the accuracy and clarity of the definition being provided.

by setting out

Uses "setting out" to imply a structured and organized presentation of details.

by designating

Replaces "specifying" with "designating", suggesting a formal selection or appointment.

FAQs

How can I use "by specifying" in a sentence?

You can use "by specifying" to introduce a detailed explanation or requirement. For example, "You can improve the query results "by specifying" more precise criteria."

What are some alternatives to "by specifying"?

Alternatives include "by defining", "by detailing", or "through specification", depending on the context.

Is it redundant to use "by specifying"?

While generally acceptable, in some simple sentences using "by specifying" can create unnecessary wordiness. Consider whether a simpler verb like "stating" or "defining" would be more concise.

What's the difference between "by specifying" and "by indicating"?

"By specifying" implies providing precise details or requirements, while "by indicating" suggests a more general act of pointing out or showing something, without necessarily going into great detail.