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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
explicitly specify
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"explicitly specify" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are giving clear and detailed instructions about something. For example, "Please explicitly specify the instructions for assembling the product."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Formal & Business
Alternative expressions(20)
clearly define
precisely state
expressly stipulate
unambiguously detail
specifically designate
definitively determine
clearly articulate
precisely specify
overtly specify
unequivocally specify
formally specify
exactly specify
specifically specify
unambiguously specify
clearly specify
directly specify
definitely specify
explicitly specifies
explicitly specified
stipulates
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
53 human-written examples
The government does not explicitly specify this, although it implies the operation should be time limited.
News & Media
However, the problem becomes well-posed if we explicitly specify the stability margins.
Analyses as presented explicitly specify uncertainty of process knowledge and data used in future-oriented studies.
Science
In some cases, we need to explicitly specify the arguments of G.
where the last linear constraint (20d) is to explicitly specify a zero-forcing precoder.
The expressions DSR and SSR can be used to explicitly specify wavelength or scattering angle.
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
7 human-written examples
Authors and agents have argued that digital rights belong to authors unless explicitly specified, seeking new advances on royalties from digital sales.
News & Media
University presidents are dismissed – if later reinstated – for failing to change fast enough, though the terms and targets of change are never explicitly specified.
News & Media
In GDMO, objects related to a goal in an SD are explicitly specified.
Science
Matrices, if not explicitly specified, are assumed to have compatible dimensions.
Matrices, if not explicitly specified, are assumed to have appropriate dimensions.
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "explicitly specify", ensure that the context requires a high degree of clarity and leaves no room for misinterpretation. This is particularly useful in technical documentation, legal agreements, and scientific reports.
Common error
Avoid using "explicitly specify" in casual conversation or informal writing where a simpler term like "say" or "mention" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal or stilted.
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "explicitly specify" primarily functions as a verb phrase. It is used to indicate the action of stating something clearly and directly, leaving no room for ambiguity or misinterpretation. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically sound and usable in written English.
Frequent in
Science
80%
News & Media
10%
Formal & Business
10%
Less common in
Social Media
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "explicitly specify" is a grammatically correct and frequently used term, particularly in scientific, technical, and formal contexts. According to Ludwig AI, it’s best used when you need to give clear and detailed instructions or requirements. While it is appropriate for formal writing, it should be used sparingly in informal contexts to avoid sounding overly stilted. Alternative phrases like "clearly define" or "precisely state" can be used depending on the specific nuances you want to convey. This analysis underscores that while "explicitly specify" is a valuable tool for precise communication, its usage should be tailored to suit the context and audience.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
clearly define
Focuses on the clarity of the definition, rather than the act of specifying.
precisely state
Emphasizes the accuracy and exactness of the statement.
expressly stipulate
Suggests a more formal and legally binding specification.
unambiguously detail
Highlights the lack of ambiguity in the provided details.
specifically designate
Focuses on the act of pointing out or assigning something with particularity.
definitively determine
Stresses the finality and certainty of the determination.
clearly articulate
Emphasizes the clarity and eloquence in expressing the details.
distinctly outline
Focuses on providing a clear and separate sketch or plan.
exactly prescribe
Suggests setting down a rule or direction with precision.
openly declare
Focuses on making a transparent and public declaration.
FAQs
How can I use "explicitly specify" in a sentence?
You can use "explicitly specify" when you need to clearly and precisely state something. For example, "The contract must "explicitly specify" the payment terms".
What are some alternatives to "explicitly specify"?
Some alternatives include "clearly define", "precisely state", or "expressly stipulate" depending on the context.
Is it better to "explicitly specify" or "implicitly suggest"?
It depends on the situation. "Explicitly specify" is used when you need to be clear and direct, leaving no room for interpretation. "Implicitly suggest" is used when you want to hint at something without directly stating it.
What does it mean to "explicitly specify" something in a legal document?
In legal documents, to "explicitly specify" means to state something clearly, directly, and without any ambiguity. This ensures that all parties understand the terms and conditions without needing to infer them.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested