it is possible to specify

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is possible to specify" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the ability to define or detail something in a particular context. Example: "In this software, it is possible to specify the parameters for the data analysis."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

With the technique the Mora group used, it is possible to specify climate departure dates for individual cities.

The New York Times - Science

A particular change in behaviour is attributed to learning, then, because it is possible to specify the set of circumstances that produced it.

Encyclopedia Britannica

By determining the stimulus magnitude that is just sufficient to produce a sensation (or a response), it is possible to specify the minimum perceptible stimulus, or the absolute stimulus threshold (stimulus limen), for the various senses.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But flattening them out makes the individual fascicles accessible, like the parallel wires in old computer cables, says Dr Tyler.And by controlling the intensity and duration of the electrical pulses applied, it is possible to specify just how much of the tissue is contracted.

The Economist

Therefore, it is possible to specify the background concentration for all lithotypes.

Journal of Geochemical Exploration

By using AO-ADL it is possible to specify separately crosscutting concerns and base functionality.

Journal of Systems and Software

It is possible to specify a translation function per valid CAN ID.

EURASIP Journal on Embedded Systems

It is possible to specify a translation ID for every CAN identifier used in the system.

EURASIP Journal on Embedded Systems

It is possible to specify how many consecutive non-improving nodes must be encountered before the system backtracks.

Journal of Software Engineering Research and Development

From the GUI it is possible to specify the number of parallel threads sending tasks to the queue.

Journal of Cloud Computing

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Thus, it was possible to specify and explore their main requirements before and during the proposal development.

Journal of the Brazilian Computer Society

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is possible to specify", ensure the context clearly indicates what can be specified and under what conditions. Clarity enhances the sentence's effectiveness.

Common error

Avoid overuse of passive constructions like "it is possible to specify". In many cases, active voice alternatives (e.g. "you can specify", "one can define") make your writing more direct and engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is possible to specify" functions as an introductory expression indicating the ability or option to define, determine, or set particular parameters or conditions. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Examples show its frequent use in contexts where precision and control are important.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

79%

News & Media

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is possible to specify" is a grammatically sound and widely used phrase, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in scientific and technical writing, it serves to introduce a capability for defining or setting parameters. While perfectly acceptable, writers should be mindful of the potential for overuse of passive voice and consider more direct alternatives when appropriate. The frequency of this expression in formal contexts underscores its utility in professional and academic discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is feasible to define

Replaces "possible" with "feasible", suggesting practicality and ease of definition.

it is viable to determine

Substitutes "specify" with "determine", implying a process of finding out with certainty.

one can define

Uses a more direct and concise phrasing, shifting from a passive to an active voice.

it is within the realm of possibility to define

Expands the phrase to emphasize the potential for definition, highlighting the scope of possibility.

it is achievable to designate

Replaces "specify" with "designate", focusing on the act of formally choosing or naming something.

it is allowed to stipulate

Changes "possible" to "allowed" and "specify" to "stipulate", indicating permission and formal agreement.

one has the ability to define

Emphasizes the capability and power to define, rather than just the possibility.

it is known how to define

Implies that the method for specifying is already known or established.

the option to define exists

Focuses on the existence of a choice to define, rather than the ease or practicality.

it is up to the user to define

Shifts the responsibility of defining to the user, emphasizing control and customization.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it is possible to specify" to sound more direct?

You can use more direct alternatives like "you can specify", "one may specify", or simply "it can be specified". These options remove the passive construction and often make your writing more concise.

What's the difference between "it is possible to specify" and "it is necessary to specify"?

"It is possible to specify" indicates an option or capability, while "it is necessary to specify" indicates a requirement. The former suggests flexibility, while the latter implies an obligation.

Is "it is possible to specify" too formal for everyday writing?

While "it is possible to specify" is acceptable in formal contexts, it might sound stilted in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "you can choose" or "you can define" in informal settings.

When is it best to use "it is possible to specify" over other alternatives?

Use "it is possible to specify" when you want to emphasize the capability or option to define something within a set of constraints or parameters, especially in technical or formal writing. See also "one can define".