less specific

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less specific" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the level of detail or precision of two or more items, indicating that one is not as detailed as the other. Example: "The first explanation was very detailed, while the second one was less specific and left out important information."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Salehi was less specific.

The Guardian

Its other plans are less specific.

The New York Times

Harlequins are less specific about their aspirations.

The New York Times - Sports

Intel has been less specific.

MIT Technology Review

The other symptoms, however, are less specific.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It can be harder when your subject is less specific.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Mr. Sharpton was less specific in his demands yesterday.

The New York Times

To this end, the less specific and recognizable the better.

The New Yorker

Mr. Resnick suggested that he be less specific.

The New York Times

Currently, there are less specific data comparing both construction methods.

Materials & Design

Trottier was less specific about the goalie situation, saying it "would play itself out".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "less specific" when you want to indicate a lack of detail or precision in a description, plan, or explanation. For example, use it when comparing two options where one is more detailed than the other.

Common error

While "less specific" is generally acceptable, overuse can make your writing seem imprecise or unclear. In formal contexts, consider using stronger alternatives like "more general" or "vague" if they more accurately convey your intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less specific" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a lower degree of detail or precision. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is a valid and commonly used expression in English. The phrase is used to show the level of detail between two or more options.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

37%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less specific" is a grammatically sound and frequently used comparative adjective phrase that indicates a lower degree of detail or precision. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and widely applicable, it's versatile and appears in various contexts, including news media, scientific publications, and academic writing. It is key to remember that, while generally useful, one should still take care to not overuse it and look for more precise alternatives such as ""more general"" or ""more vague"" for more clarity and strength in one's writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more general

Indicates a broader scope, encompassing more possibilities but with less defined boundaries.

less detailed

Focuses on the absence of intricate information and elaboration.

more vague

Highlights the lack of clarity and precision, leading to ambiguity.

less precise

Emphasizes the absence of exactness and accuracy in measurement or definition.

less explicit

Indicates that something is implied rather than directly stated.

more ambiguous

Highlights the presence of multiple interpretations and lack of clear meaning.

less defined

Focuses on the lack of clear boundaries or characteristics.

less distinct

Emphasizes the lack of clear differentiation or separation.

more indefinite

Indicates a lack of fixed limits or boundaries.

less concrete

Highlights the abstract nature and absence of tangible qualities.

FAQs

How can I use "less specific" in a sentence?

You can use "less specific" to compare the level of detail between two things. For example: "The first proposal was very detailed, but the second was "less specific"."

What is a good alternative to "less specific"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "less specific" include "more general", "more vague", or "less detailed".

Is it grammatically correct to say "less specific"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to use "less specific". It is used to indicate that something is not as detailed or precise as something else.

When should I use "less specific" instead of "vague"?

"Less specific" is often used when comparing two things in terms of detail, while "vague" implies a lack of clarity in general. Use "less specific" when something is intentionally "less defined", whereas "vague" suggests unintentional obscurity.