it specifies

USAGE SUMMARY

'it specifies' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you need to explain that something provides a specific set of guidelines or instructions. For example, "This policy document outlines the procedures for the workplace. It specifies appropriate conduct for employees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Such a canon presents boundaries; it specifies which books are authorities and which are not.

The New York Times - Books

It specifies the ABC, SBS and publishers of newspapers as those who can gain access.

The Guardian

It specifies how the deal will be done and what the parties need to do to complete the transaction.

The New York Times

It specifies the requirement for short- and long-term specialist services for those who have experienced violence against women.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It specifies that "any exclusion of a pupil, even for short periods of time, must be formally recorded".

The Guardian

It specifies that couples heading for the divorce courts must, in future, attend a 'mediation information and assessment meeting'.

Independent

It specifies the order in which banks' investors and creditors, and then uninsured depositors, will face losses.

The New York Times

It specifies that "the unborn child has a fundamental individual right to life which cannot be infringed".

The New York Times

It specifies a typical atomic length scale.

Journal of Theoretical and Applied Physics

It specifies a brokerage system from five RM-ODP viewpoints.

Computer Standards & Interfaces

But it specifies the rivers as the same.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it specifies", ensure that the subject 'it' is clearly defined in the preceding context to avoid ambiguity. For example: "The contract outlines the project scope. It specifies the deliverables and timelines."

Common error

Avoid using "it specifies" when the antecedent of 'it' is ambiguous or unclear. Ensure the reader can easily identify what "it" refers to. Rewrite the sentence to explicitly state the subject if necessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it specifies" functions as a clause introducer, indicating that the subject, referred to by "it", provides specific details, requirements, or instructions. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it specifies" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase for indicating that something provides particular details or requirements. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate usage across a wide range of contexts, primarily in science and news media. When employing this phrase, ensure the referent of "it" is clear to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "it details" or "it stipulates" to fine-tune the intended meaning. The phrase is valuable for ensuring clarity and avoiding misinterpretation, and according to Ludwig, it maintains a generally neutral tone suitable for diverse writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it details

Focuses on providing a comprehensive account of something, differing from just setting particular conditions.

it defines

Emphasizes establishing the meaning or scope of something rather than the specifics of its application.

it stipulates

Implies a more formal or legal requirement than simply "specifies".

it prescribes

Suggests a set of rules or guidelines that must be followed, carrying a stronger sense of obligation.

it designates

Highlights the act of officially assigning a particular role or purpose, differing from detailing how something should be.

it outlines

Focuses on giving a summary of something, not necessarily a detailed explanation.

it lays down

Indicates the establishment of rules or laws, suggesting a more authoritative setting of conditions.

it determines

Focuses on the act of finding something out for certain, rather than providing specifications.

it indicates

Suggests pointing out something indirectly, rather than detailing specifics.

it establishes

Highlights the act of setting something up on a firm or permanent basis, rather than giving the details about it.

FAQs

How can I use "it specifies" in a sentence?

Use "it specifies" to indicate that something provides detailed instructions or requirements. For example, "The document outlines the process; "it specifies" each step to be taken."

What are some alternatives to "it specifies"?

You can use alternatives like "it details", "it defines", or "it stipulates" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "it specifies that"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The "that" introduces a clause that provides further details about what is being specified. For example, "It specifies that all employees must attend the training."

What's the difference between "it specifies" and "it suggests"?

"It specifies" implies a directive or requirement, while "it suggests" offers a recommendation or possibility. The former is more authoritative and less open to interpretation.