in specific case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in specific case" is not correct; it should be "in a specific case" or "in specific cases." You can use it when referring to particular instances or situations that require special attention or consideration.
Example: "In a specific case, the rules may not apply as they usually do."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

In specific case, cells which are made in different techniques can be used in multi-bit adder.

Microelectronics Journal

These aspects (actual polarity of the loops transfers) are important for design of the AGC in specific case.

AEU - International Journal of Electronics and Communications

In specific case of Extraversion profile, all the three groups were differentiated from each other from the scores in Practical Professional Information Search.

Psicologia: Reflexão e Crítica

The multiagent system can add agents that specialize in specific case studies and allows the reuse of functionalities for specific layers.

BioMed Research International

In specific case studies, the degree of polarization was correlated also experimentally with AOD measurements (Masuda et al., 1999; Shukurov and Shukurov, 2006).

Atmospheric Research

Indeed, this been done successfully in specific case studies of gene families, i.e. chemoreceptors [ 16, 17], heat shock proteins [ 18], and homeobox genes [ 19].

BMC Genomics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Legislation must be introduced to override confidentiality and data protection clauses in specific cases under investigation.

The Guardian - Opinion

In specific cases, the subsidies may even exceed a bank's profits.

The New York Times

HSA remains a satisfactory solution in specific cases.

Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery

An estimated 70% of Chileans support abortion in specific cases and the Congress this year approved civil unions for gay couples.

The Guardian

"In specific cases, genetics is a very useful tool, but it is not a panacea," he says.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing an example, consider using "for example" or "as a case in point" instead of "in specific case" for better clarity.

Common error

Avoid omitting the article "a" when referring to a singular instance. Saying "in specific case" is grammatically incorrect and can confuse readers. Use "in a specific case" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in specific case" functions as a prepositional phrase intended to introduce a particular instance or situation. However, according to Ludwig, it is grammatically incorrect and should be replaced with "in a specific case" or "in specific cases".

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "in specific case" appears in some sources, it is grammatically incorrect. Ludwig advises using "in a specific case" (singular) or "in specific cases" (plural) to ensure accuracy. Its intended function is to introduce particular instances, but the error diminishes its suitability for formal contexts. Consider using alternatives like "in a particular case" or "under certain circumstances". Always prioritize grammatical correctness to maintain clarity and credibility in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a specific instance

Adds an article and implies a single occurrence.

in specific instances

Changes the phrase to plural form.

in a particular case

Replaces 'specific' with 'particular'.

in certain cases

Uses 'certain' instead of 'specific' and pluralizes 'case'.

in some cases

Uses 'some' instead of 'specific' and pluralizes 'case'.

under certain circumstances

Replaces the phrase with a more descriptive alternative.

in a unique situation

Emphasizes the uniqueness of the situation.

for example

Introduces an example as a specific instance.

as a case in point

Highlights a relevant example or illustration.

specifically

Offers a shorter, adverbial form.

FAQs

What's the proper way to say "in specific case"?

The grammatically correct alternatives are "in a specific case" (singular) or "in specific cases" (plural). You can also use synonyms like "in a particular case".

How does "in a specific case" differ from "in general"?

"In a specific case" refers to a particular situation, whereas "in general" refers to a broad or common situation. Using "in general" implies a widespread condition, not an isolated instance.

When should I use "in specific cases" over "generally"?

Use "in specific cases" when discussing exceptions or particular instances where a general rule may not apply. "Generally" implies a rule is usually true, but "in specific cases" highlights deviations.

Are there more formal alternatives to "in a specific case"?

Yes, more formal alternatives include "under certain circumstances" or "in a unique situation". These phrases are suitable for academic or professional writing and can replace "in a specific case".