it was specifically

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was specifically" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to emphasize a particular aspect or detail that is being referred to in a statement. Example: "In the report, it was specifically noted that the project exceeded its budget."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Sleep Shirt, launched in August this year, could be its replacement – it was specifically designed as stylish nightwear.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The block, with its discreet grey façade, is imposing but characterless, as if it was specifically designed to discourage curiosity.

The Guardian

It was specifically communist and revolutionary.

The Guardian

Did she think it was specifically Jewish, this oral telling?

The Guardian - Books

It was specifically not designed to be a military force.

The New Yorker

It was specifically applied to an RM-shaped core.

Journal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials

It was specifically created to more fully use range images acquired from a Cyberware range scanner.

Stanford University

My sister read it, but it wasn't for her — it was specifically for me.

The New Yorker

"The message, however it was specifically couched, amounted to the same thing: 'Sorry.

The New York Times - Books

Though it was specifically about women and their bodies, I saw it as very human.

The Guardian

"It was specifically for students who qualified for financial aid," she says.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "it was specifically," ensure that the context provides enough information for the reader to understand what the 'it' refers to. Clarity is key for effective communication.

Common error

Avoid using "it was specifically" repetitively in a single piece of writing. Overuse can weaken the impact of the phrase and make your writing sound monotonous. Opt for synonyms like "it was particularly" or "it was expressly" to vary your language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was specifically" functions as an adverbial phrase that modifies a verb or clause. It emphasizes that something was done or created with a particular, focused purpose or intention. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a correct and usable expression in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was specifically" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to emphasize a particular purpose or intention. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Predominantly found in news, scientific and academic contexts, it serves to clarify that something was intentionally designed or executed with a specific goal in mind. While versatile, it's essential to use it judiciously to avoid redundancy and ensure clarity. Alternatives such as "it was particularly" or "it was expressly" can provide variety and nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was particularly

Replaces "specifically" with "particularly", offering a slightly less forceful emphasis.

it was expressly

Substitutes "specifically" with "expressly", highlighting clarity and directness of purpose.

it was intentionally

Replaces "specifically" with "intentionally", focusing on the deliberate nature of the action.

it was designed to

Shifts the focus to the design aspect, implying a specific purpose from the beginning.

it was precisely

Emphasizes the exactness or accuracy of the detail.

it was uniquely

Highlights the distinctiveness or singularity of the subject.

it was exclusively

Indicates that something is limited to a particular purpose or group.

it was deliberately

Similar to "intentionally", but with a stronger implication of conscious choice.

it was purpose-built

Implies a very tailored and intentional design for a particular use.

the aim was to

Restructures the sentence to focus on the intended goal or objective.

FAQs

How can I use "it was specifically" in a sentence?

Use "it was specifically" to emphasize the particular purpose or design of something. For instance, "The software "it was specifically designed" for data analysis."

What are some alternatives to "it was specifically"?

You can use alternatives like "it was particularly", "it was expressly", or "it was intentionally" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

When should I use "it was specifically" instead of "it was generally"?

"It was specifically" emphasizes a focused purpose or design, whereas "it was generally" suggests a broader, less defined application. Choose "it was specifically" when highlighting a particular detail.

Is "it was specifically designed" redundant?

While "designed" already implies a specific intention, "it was specifically designed" can add emphasis. However, consider whether the emphasis is necessary or if "it was designed" alone suffices for clearer writing.