find something specific

USAGE SUMMARY

"find something specific" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to emphasize that someone should look for something with a particular set of characteristics. For example: "We need to find something specific to wear to the party - something that will make us stand out".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

"The thing that makes StumbleUpon is not that you can't find something specific," Mr. Camp said.

The New York Times

"She was so neurotic there she had to find something specific on the baby to make sure they got the right one," Catherine said, laughing.

The New York Times

You have to dig in and find something specific, then pop back out and try again.

TechCrunch

To find something specific, you  can search for items by voice, thanks to Apple TV's Siri remote, or you can type in searches with the on-screen keyboard.

TechCrunch

I'm personally in at least a dozen nearby sale groups, which can be challenging when you're trying to find something specific, like a coffee table or used bike, for example.

TechCrunch

"When I'm in London, I like to explore or go on missions to find something specific, like a shirt".

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Whether you use Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu or — let's be real — all three, you'll find something for your specific scary style.

Huffington Post

Some of the policy documents are posted on the intranet, but it isonly when one wants to find something about a specific policy that is when they go to the intranet to search" (KII, MakSPH, Uganda).

Health Research Policy and Systems

Even better if you can be specific: Find something about your partner that has improved with age -- a leaner face, perhaps? a more muscular torso?

Huffington Post

Get something specific.

WikiHow

"Unless you found something very specific, it may not be the best approach," Priola says.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "find something specific", clarify the criteria for 'specific' to guide the search, whether it's size, color, price or use.

Common error

Avoid using "find something specific" when the criteria are vague or undefined, as this can lead to inefficient or unsuccessful searches. For example, instead of saying "find something specific for dinner", specify a cuisine or ingredient.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "find something specific" functions as a directive, indicating the need to locate an item or information with particular characteristics. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. The examples provided showcase its use in various contexts where a targeted search is required.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

40%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "find something specific" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase indicating the need to locate something with particular characteristics. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and the phrase appears frequently in news, media, and wiki contexts. Related phrases include "locate a particular item" and "identify a certain object". When using the phrase, be sure to define the criteria for 'specific' to guide the search effectively. Avoid using the phrase when criteria are vague.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

locate a particular item

This alternative focuses on the act of locating, suggesting a more precise search.

identify a certain object

This alternative emphasizes the identification aspect, implying a need to recognize the item.

discover a precise thing

This alternative replaces "find" with "discover", highlighting the act of uncovering something new and precise.

turn up a singular item

This is a more idiomatic way of saying find and singular focuses in unicity and especifity.

pinpoint a definite object

This option emphasizes the precision required in the search, pinpointing a precise target.

unearth a unique item

Implies finding something special or rare, adding a layer of uniqueness.

track down a distinct object

Suggests a more persistent or difficult search.

procure a dedicated item

More formal and suggests acquiring something for a particular purpose.

come across an exact item

Highlights the element of chance or serendipity in finding what you need.

attain a limited object

More formal emphasizing the attainment of an object.

FAQs

How can I use "find something specific" in a sentence?

You can use "find something specific" to express the need to locate an item or piece of information that meets particular criteria. For example, "I need to find something specific for a science project" or "She went to the library to find something specific about ancient Egypt".

What can I say instead of "find something specific"?

You can use alternatives like "locate a particular item", "identify a certain object", or "discover a precise thing" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "find something specific" or "find a specific something"?

"Find something specific" is generally preferred because it sounds more natural and is more commonly used. "Find a specific something" is grammatically correct, but less idiomatic.

What's the difference between "find something specific" and "look for something specific"?

"Look for something specific" emphasizes the act of searching, while "find something specific" emphasizes the successful result of that search. You "look for" something, and hopefully, you "find" it.