elaborate on specific

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "elaborate on specific" is not complete and needs additional context to be fully correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when asking someone to provide more details about a particular topic or aspect, but it should be followed by a noun or noun phrase to clarify what is being specified. Example: "Could you elaborate on specific aspects of your research findings?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

In a W.-like moment Thursday night, Stern could not or would not elaborate on specific regrets during his commissionership.

The New York Times - Sports

Smith, who would not elaborate on specific stumbling blocks, said the new proposition would pull in parts of Channel 4's operation, including ad sales as well as using its strong heritage in genres such as gardening, property and food.

The Guardian

Clay Owen, a spokesman for Cingular in Atlanta, confirmed reports Friday on AdAge.com and Adweek.com that the company had concluded its media review, but declined to elaborate on specific assignments.

The New York Times

James R. Munyon, its president and chief executive, said his group's inspections were reliable and tough, no matter who pays for them, but he declined to elaborate on specific audits.

The New York Times

He replied that there were "such signs", but that he could not elaborate on specific intelligence.

BBC

This study aims to elaborate on specific computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation methods for fitting the flow-pressure curve of a pressure control valve, which is spring-load valve widely used in the automotive fuel supply system.

Energy Conversion and Management

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

While they declined to elaborate on specifics of the latest case, several criminologists said it did not seem atypical.

The New York Times

While Mr. Schick confirmed that Mr. Schrempp had had several discussions with Mr. Iacocca about Chrysler, he declined to elaborate on specifics of the conversations.

The New York Times

Though she didn't elaborate on specifics of the release, Parton said the album will include "several songs that are very positive towards the gay community".

Huffington Post

Last Sunday, in an article in The New York Times, Angelos said he believed the Yankees were a vulnerable team, and in Thursday's Baltimore Sun he elaborated on specific players.

The New York Times - Sports

To investigate these topics, scholars elaborated on specific theoretical tools, essentially standard agency theory (SAT), incomplete contract theory and game theory.

Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "elaborate on specific", ensure you clearly define which aspects you will provide more detail about, avoiding ambiguity. For example, specify "elaborate on specific aspects of the budget proposal."

Common error

Avoid using "elaborate on specific" without indicating what you are making specific. Simply stating you will elaborate without direction can confuse the reader or listener. Always follow the phrase with the subject you will be providing details about.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "elaborate on specific" functions as a phrasal verb that calls for or offers a more in-depth explanation or detailing of particular aspects. It indicates a desire or willingness to provide more information, often in response to a question or a need for clarification, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Reference

5%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "elaborate on specific" is a phrasal verb used to request or offer detailed explanations about particular aspects of a topic. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. While generally neutral to formal, it's important to follow the phrase with the precise subject being detailed to avoid vagueness. Alternatives such as ""expand on specific"" or ""detail specific"" can be used to achieve similar effects with slightly different connotations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expand on specific

This alternative maintains the core meaning but replaces "elaborate" with the more concise "expand".

detail specific

This option focuses on providing details, omitting the "on" for a slightly more direct feel.

go into specific details

This alternative emphasizes the act of providing more detailed information.

clarify specific

This alternative shifts the focus towards making something clearer by providing details.

expound on specific

Replacing 'elaborate' with 'expound' adds formality and suggests a more thorough explanation.

discuss in detail specific

This option frames it as a detailed discussion, suitable for formal contexts.

provide specific details about

This alternative is more explicit, specifying the action of providing details.

offer more specific information on

This version highlights the offering of information, indicating a willingness to share.

shed light on specific

This alternative means to clarify or explain something, making it easier to understand.

delve into specific

This option suggests a deeper investigation or exploration of a topic.

FAQs

How can I use "elaborate on specific" in a sentence?

You can use "elaborate on specific" to ask for or offer more detail about a particular aspect of a topic. For example, "Could you "elaborate on specific" challenges you faced during the project?"

What can I say instead of "elaborate on specific"?

Alternatives include "expand on specific", "detail specific", or "go into specific details", depending on the context and level of formality required.

Is it more formal to say "elaborate on specific" or "go into specific details"?

"Elaborate on specific" generally carries a slightly more formal tone than "go into specific details". Both are acceptable, but "elaborate" might be preferred in professional or academic settings.

What's the difference between "elaborate on specific" and "elaborate on general"?

"Elaborate on specific" suggests you're providing more details about particular points or aspects, while "elaborate on general" (though less common) would imply you're expanding on a broader overview or concept.