it fails to specify

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it fails to specify" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a lack of clarity or detail in a statement, document, or argument. Example: "The report is lacking in detail; it fails to specify the exact timeline for the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Opponents of the accord worry that it fails to specify the number of American troops allowed here.

The New York Times

"E.R.P.C. is deeply disappointed that while the framework recognizes the need to fight discrimination against Roma and ensure their equal access to all fundamental rights, it fails to specify measures to combat discrimination, intimidation, anti-Gypsyism, hate speech or violence against Roma," it said in a statement.

The New York Times

The sentence is 'sense-general'; it fails to specify some detail without thereby being ambiguous with respect to that detail.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The airline confirmed with that the unit is likely a Samsung device, according to its "initial reports," though it failed to specify a model number.

TechCrunch

In particular it failed to specify whether the SNP would field Salmond – who stood down from Westminster at the last election – or another SNP MP.

The Guardian

Alschuler finds Holmes's defense of judicial restraint "ambiguous" and incoherent because it failed to specify how the dominant power was dominant.

The New York Times - Books

But the statement did not generate immediate excitement among pro-democracy campaigners in Jordan, largely because it failed to specify any timetable for the change.

The New York Times

In a famous example from the Civil War, Thomas said, the government could sue Army contractors for fraud for supplying guns that did not fire, even if it "failed to specify the guns it orders must actually shoot".

Los Angeles Times

There is also a monument in the town dedicated to the veterans of the Spanish-American War, however said monument fails to specify to which veterans it is dedicated to, the Americans or the Spanish/Puerto Ricans.

Wikipedia

It creates a mechanism to collect funds from TEPCO and other power firms but fails to specify how the costs will be shared.

The Economist

And if a restaurant fails to specify the source of spinach in its items, diners should avoid ordering raw spinach, he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it fails to specify" when you want to highlight a deficiency in a document, plan, or statement regarding particular details. Ensure the context clearly indicates what is missing.

Common error

While "it fails to specify" isn't inherently passive, excessive use of similar passive constructions can weaken your writing. Try to rephrase sentences to highlight the actor responsible for the failure to specify.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it fails to specify" functions as a critical commentary, pointing out a lack of detailed information or clarity in a given context. As seen in Ludwig examples, this construction is used to highlight deficiencies in reports, contracts, or arguments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it fails to specify" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to denote a lack of detail or clarity. As confirmed by Ludwig, its versatile nature allows it to be used across news, scientific, and business contexts. While the phrase is valid, it's beneficial to avoid overuse and replace it with other alternatives such as "it omits to mention" or "it neglects to detail" to improve writing quality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it omits to mention

This alternative focuses on the act of leaving something unsaid or unwritten, highlighting the omission.

it neglects to detail

This highlights the act of overlooking or failing to provide specifics.

it doesn't elaborate on

This phrase points out the lack of further explanation or expansion on a topic.

it lacks specificity regarding

This alternative emphasizes the absence of clear and detailed information concerning a particular subject.

it provides no details about

This indicates a complete absence of specific information on a particular matter.

it leaves undefined

This phrase focuses on the lack of a clear definition or explanation.

it remains vague on the subject of

This emphasizes the lack of clarity and precision regarding a particular topic.

it is unforthcoming with information about

This suggests a reluctance to provide details, implying a withholding of information.

it glosses over the specifics of

This indicates that the details are superficially treated or avoided entirely.

it passes over in silence

This suggests that something is intentionally not mentioned or discussed.

FAQs

How can I use "it fails to specify" in a sentence?

Use "it fails to specify" when you want to point out the lack of specific details in a statement, document, or argument. For example, "The contract is problematic because "it fails to specify" the payment terms."

What are some alternatives to "it fails to specify"?

You can use alternatives like "it omits to mention", "it neglects to detail", or "it doesn't elaborate on" depending on the context.

What does it mean when something 'fails to specify'?

When something "fails to specify", it means it does not provide enough detail or clarity on a particular point, leaving it undefined or open to interpretation.

Is it better to use 'fails to specify' or 'does not specify'?

Both 'fails to specify' and 'does not specify' are grammatically correct. 'Fails to specify' can sometimes carry a slightly stronger connotation of deficiency or shortcoming.