definitely specify

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "definitely specify" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize the need for clear and precise information or details. Example: "In your report, please definitely specify the parameters of the experiment to ensure accurate results."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

π-Calculus can definitely specify equipment interaction, and NuSMV can automate verification process.

Microprocessors and Microsystems

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

This is why insurance contracts specify very definitely what events must take place, what constitutes loss, and how it is to be measured.

Encyclopedia Britannica

You will definitely be prompted to specify a region code for the DVD.

WikiHow

These have a value of 1 if a cell corresponds to a sample definitely belonging to a specified class, and 0 if definitely not intermediate values are possible where there is uncertainly.

Chemistry Central Journal

It's not clear how the revenue share breaks down — and Nokia wouldn't specify when we asked — but it's definitely doing less of the heavy lifting, with Foxconn making the hardware and also handling distribution, sales and marketing.

TechCrunch

Buying your cruise in American dollars and paying for most onboard purchases, like spa treatments or shore excursions, in American dollars, as one reader specified, can definitely be a savings.

The New York Times

But Google's AJ Asver said in a Google+ update that the app will definitely be rolling out to other Chromebooks as well, though he doesn't specify a timeline for that happening.

TechCrunch

He did not specify that we would not be able to live in her house, but it was definitely implied, and it effectively squashed any fantasy of ownership.

The New Yorker

She didn't specify.

The New York Times - Magazine

Specify vegan requirements.

The New York Times

He declined to specify.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "definitely specify" when you want to add emphasis to the act of specifying details, ensuring there's no ambiguity. For a more formal context, consider "explicitly state" or "precisely indicate".

Common error

While "definitely specify" adds emphasis, avoid overusing "definitely" in your writing. Excessive use can weaken your message and sound redundant. Use it sparingly for a stronger impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definitely specify" functions as a verb phrase that emphasizes the action of specifying. It highlights the importance of being clear and unambiguous when providing details. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "definitely specify" is a grammatically sound phrase used to emphasize the need for clear and precise details. While Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability, it's important to use it judiciously to avoid redundancy. Related phrases like "clearly define" or "explicitly state" can offer suitable alternatives depending on the context. Keep in mind the potential for overuse and tailor your language to suit the audience and purpose of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clearly define

Replaces "definitely specify" with a more common and direct expression emphasizing clarity in definition.

explicitly state

Emphasizes making something known in a very clear and direct way, instead of just specifying.

precisely indicate

Focuses on pinpointing or showing something accurately, adding an element of exactness.

unambiguously outline

Highlights the removal of any doubt or confusion in the outlining process.

expressly stipulate

Suggests a formal and clear requirement, often in legal or official contexts.

clearly stipulate

Similar to "expressly stipulate" but less formal, emphasizing clarity in the stipulation.

specifically designate

Focuses on selecting or appointing something for a particular purpose with precision.

definitely indicate

Shares a similar tone but has a broader use, not limited to defining a set of rules.

expressly define

A more emphatic version of "clearly define", stressing the explicitness of the definition.

unquestionably specify

Highlights the certainty and lack of doubt in the specification process.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "definitely specify"?

Use "definitely specify" when you want to emphasize the importance of providing clear and unambiguous details. It adds a layer of certainty to the act of specifying.

What are some alternatives to "definitely specify"?

You can use alternatives like "clearly define", "explicitly state", or "precisely indicate" depending on the context.

Is "definitely specify" too informal for academic writing?

While not inherently informal, "definitely specify" might be perceived as less formal than options like "explicitly stipulate" or "precisely indicate" in academic contexts. Consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing.

How does "definitely specify" differ from "clearly specify"?

Both phrases emphasize the need for clarity. However, "definitely specify" adds an extra layer of emphasis, suggesting a stronger need for certainty and detail compared to the more straightforward "clearly specify".