general specifics

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "general specifics" is not correct and is generally considered contradictory in written English.
It can be used in contexts where one might want to refer to broad details or overarching themes, but it is not a standard expression. Example: "In our discussion, we need to focus on the general specifics of the project to ensure everyone is on the same page."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Then, the general specifics of the sample are the coexistence of extended atomically flat terraces with abrupt height changes of several dozen nanometers (essentially step-bunching areas).

Nanoscale Research Letters

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Ontology terms in the slim set are classified into four levels of increasing specificity: highly general, general, specific and highly specific.

Biochimie

Listening to "The General Specific," I feel good Beach Boy vibrations.

The New York Times

Things pick up instantly when Sheep escapes in the city and has to evade the villainous General Specific and his cohorts, General Dentistry and General Interest.

The New York Times

In terms of politics, we're thinking about talks, debates and interviews etc, but any suggestions - general, specific, politics-related, or non-political - would be appreciated.

The Guardian

Sheep is being pursued by the evil General Specific (he works with General Motors, General Assembly and General Hospital), who runs a top-secret agency and wants to use Sheep in the creation of a superpowerful weapon, the sheep-powered Destructo-Zap 3000.

The New York Times

They developed a general specific heat correlation as [90]: (3).

Nanoscale Research Letters

The scope of this guideline is laparoscopy in general, specific laparoscopic procedures are not addressed.

Gynecological Surgery

In general, specific types of joints such as end effectors often require higher precision than other general types of joints in, for example, CG animation and robot manipulation.

EURASIP Journal on Image and Video Processing

In general, specific surface area is a significant microstructural parameter of materials particles, which depends on the geometrical shape and porosity.

Nanoscale Research Letters

In general, specific T-cell frequencies towards ESAT-6 and CFP-10 were lower as compared to those towards PPD.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, consider using more conventional phrases like "broad details" or "general characteristics" instead of "general specifics".

Common error

Avoid using "general specifics" when you need to be either broad or precise. The phrase creates ambiguity, so choose terms that accurately reflect your intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "general specifics" attempts to combine two contradictory concepts. While some examples from Ludwig indicate its occasional use, it lacks a clear grammatical function and is often perceived as ambiguous, as noted by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "general specifics" appears in various sources, including academic and news media as shown by Ludwig, it is generally considered grammatically incorrect and potentially confusing. As Ludwig AI highlights, it combines contradictory concepts. For clearer and more effective communication, consider using alternatives like "broad details" or "key particulars", depending on the context and intended meaning. This ensures that your writing is both precise and easily understood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

broad specifics

Replaces "general" with "broad", emphasizing the wide-ranging nature of the specifics.

general details

Substitutes "specifics" with "details", focusing on the overall information rather than precise points.

overall specifics

Uses "overall" to highlight the encompassing nature of the specifics being referred to.

general characteristics

Replaces "specifics" with "characteristics", shifting the focus to typical traits.

general features

Uses "features" instead of "specifics", indicating prominent aspects.

general properties

Substitutes "specifics" with "properties", referring to inherent qualities.

key particulars

Replaces "general" with "key", highlighting the essential aspects, and "specifics" with "particulars", indicating individual details.

main specifications

Combines "main" with "specifications" to emphasize the primary requirements or standards.

overarching specifications

Uses "overarching" to emphasize the comprehensive nature of the specifications.

summary details

Combines "summary" with "details" to denote a brief yet informative overview.

FAQs

How can I use the concept of encompassing both general and specific aspects in writing?

Instead of using the potentially confusing phrase "general specifics", try alternatives like "broad details" or "overall characteristics" to maintain clarity.

What are some alternatives to "general specifics" that might be more grammatically sound?

Consider using "general details", "key particulars", or "main specifications" depending on the specific context. These options offer greater grammatical correctness and clarity.

In what situations might the phrase "general specifics" be acceptable, if at all?

While not grammatically ideal, "general specifics" might be used informally to refer to broad yet definite details. However, it's advisable to replace it with clearer alternatives like "broad specifics" in formal writing.

What distinguishes "general specifics" from "specific generalities"?

The term "specific generalities" is equally unconventional. It's best to avoid both. Use descriptive alternatives that accurately reflect your intended meaning. For instance, instead of "general specifics", consider "broad details". Instead of "specific generalities", try "detailed summaries".