devoid of specificity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "devoid of specificity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that lacks detail or precision. Example: "The report was criticized for being devoid of specificity, making it difficult to understand the key findings."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Devoid of specificity and therefore bankrupt in meaning.

Vice

More recently, it has been postulated that in mammalian cells, the palmitoylation machinery for peripheral membrane proteins is devoid of specificity [29].

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

In fact, infrequently occurring environmental conditions or unspecific, physical perturbations devoid of molecular specificity can evoke specific cellular programs, such as proliferation, quiescence or apoptosis [14].

Plosone

Both plans were devoid of specifics.

The Washington Post

Then there are the new classic line dances, like the Cupid Shuffle and the Wobble, that seem somehow universal, devoid of their geographic specificity but part of the larger black collective memory.

The New Yorker

First, the detection of metabolites by mass spectrometry offers high specificity, devoid of the problem of cross-reacting antibodies as in serological assays and false-positive PCR reactions as a result of DNA from host or other bacteria.

Cell and Bioscience

"Facing Mekka" seemed devoid of both theological and dramatic specificity.

The New York Times

Rapid developments in the field of molecular biology and gene technology resulted in generation of many macromolecular drugs including peptides, proteins, polysaccharides and nucleic acids in great number possessing superior pharmacological efficacy with site specificity and devoid of untoward and toxic effects.

Journal of Controlled Release

Control experiments using 6APi and GAi, two molecules structurally very close to 6AP and GA, but totally devoid of antiprion activity, highlight the specificity of 6AP and GA's interaction with the ribosome.

Plosone

This was lost using a Yap ∆TBS mutant devoid of TEAD binding site, validating the specificity of the BiFC staining.

eLife

Because these catalytic RNAs can be designed to have exquisite specificity and are inherently devoid of coding capacities, there is little likelihood for undesired cellular toxicities.

Methods in Enzymology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "devoid of specificity", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific details are lacking. This provides a stronger and more meaningful critique or observation.

Common error

Avoid using "devoid of specificity" excessively in formal writing. While grammatically correct, simpler phrases like "lacking detail" or "vague" often provide a more concise and impactful message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "devoid of specificity" functions as a postpositive adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a lack of specific details. As shown in Ludwig, it's used to criticize or describe something lacking precise information.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "devoid of specificity" is a grammatically sound way to express a lack of precise details. Ludwig AI identifies it as correct and usable, though somewhat uncommon. Its primary contexts are in science and news media. While effective for formal or scientific writing, simpler alternatives like "lacking detail" may be more suitable in other contexts. Remember to use this phrase when you specifically want to highlight the absence of detailed or particular information in a critical or evaluative manner. Ensure the context clearly indicates what specific details are missing for maximum impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lacking in detail

Focuses on the absence of detail rather than the absence of specificity.

without specific details

Emphasizes the absence of concrete or particular details.

lacking precision

Highlights the absence of exactness or accuracy.

missing key specifics

Highlights the absence of important details.

vague and undefined

Indicates a lack of clarity and distinctness.

general and non-specific

Uses the term 'general' to convey a broad, non-detailed sense.

broad and ill-defined

Implies a lack of clear boundaries or limitations.

abstract and indefinite

Suggests a lack of concrete or definite qualities.

unfocused and rambling

Implies a lack of a clear central point or purpose.

characterized by generality

Describes something by its overall general nature.

FAQs

How can I use "devoid of specificity" in a sentence?

You can use "devoid of specificity" to describe something that lacks specific details or precision. For example, "The report was criticized for being devoid of specificity, making it difficult to understand the key findings."

What can I say instead of "devoid of specificity"?

Alternatives include "lacking in detail", "without specific details", or "lacking precision", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "lacking specificity" or "devoid of specificity"?

"Lacking specificity" and "devoid of specificity" are quite similar. "Lacking specificity" might be perceived as slightly more common and direct, but both are grammatically correct. Choose the option that fits best with the tone and style of your writing.

What's the difference between "devoid of detail" and "devoid of specificity"?

"Devoid of detail" indicates a lack of information or elaboration, whereas "devoid of specificity" suggests a lack of precise or particular information. Something can have detail but still lack specificity if the details are not relevant or focused. Consider using "devoid of detail" when you need to highlight the missing information.