made to specification

USAGE SUMMARY

"made to specification" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a product or object that was manufactured meeting certain predetermined requirements or standards. For example: "All of the widgets produced by the factory have been made to specification."

✓ Grammatically correct

AAC: Augmentative and Alternative Communication

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The AAC materials were sourced mainly through local businesses, and included labels cut out of food packaging purchased from the supermarket, communication object boards made to specification by a carpenter and objects of reference supplied by stalls in Kilifi market.

AAC: Augmentative and Alternative Communication

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

His moon figure had to be made to specifications given by NASA.

The New Yorker

Manufacturers claim that the devices are made to specifications that allow them to be heard on construction sites.

The New York Times

Some of them would come from the costume shop's huge inventory; others were made to specifications by a shoemaker in Nova Scotia, Canada; still others were bought locally (including a pair of $340 white satin Peter Fox slippers worn with another of Ewing's gowns). The book also stipulates that in Act I Ewing would wear a braid-trimmed "ermine" cape purchased from La Scala.

Los Angeles Times

Pentagon spokesman Geoff Morrell said this week that the deadline change is the only modification that the Defense Department will make to specifications for the 179 refueling tankers.

Huffington Post

In 1967, Reilly had the first silver concert harmonica made to his specification, and he wrote many tutors and studies for the instrument.

The Guardian

This doesn't apply if you have had an item made to your specification or personalised – for example, you have had someone's name put on a football shirt.

The Guardian - Money

If you have had an item made to your specification or personalised – for example, you have had someone's name put on a football shirt – you cannot get a refund if you change your mind.

The Guardian - Money

Even though there's a thriving business in aftermarket accessories, like thermal scopes and high-capacity magazines made to "military specification". Even after these lethal weapons have been used to kill scores of people in massacre after massacre after massacre.

The New York Times

This provided each card with a small new paintable area around the edge, where more nearly undetectable marks could be made to the specification of the owner.

Vice

The walls are of narrow Byzantine bricks, made to his specifications.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When commissioning a product, clearly state the desired specifications in writing to avoid misunderstandings. Providing detailed documentation ensures the final product aligns with your expectations.

Common error

Avoid vague or ambiguous language when defining specifications. Ensure all technical requirements, dimensions, and materials are clearly outlined to prevent misinterpretations during production.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "made to specification" functions as a descriptive element, typically modifying a noun to indicate that something has been produced according to a defined set of requirements. As Ludwig confirms, it is deemed correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

31%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Academia

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "made to specification" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe products or components manufactured according to precise requirements. While relatively rare in general usage, it is commonly found in technical and business contexts, as demonstrated by Ludwig. It conveys assurance of quality and adherence to standards, and its formality level varies from neutral to professional. Clear communication and precise documentation of specifications are essential for effective usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

custom-built

Implies a personalized construction, shifting from general specifications to individual needs.

tailor-made

Suggests a perfect fit, similar to clothing alterations, making it more personalized.

bespoke

More formal and emphasizes exclusivity and high quality customization.

customized

Focuses on modifying an existing item rather than creating something new from scratch.

specifically designed

Highlights the design aspect and its purpose-driven nature.

manufactured according to requirements

A more verbose alternative, stressing the adherence to certain requirements during manufacturing.

produced to order

Focuses on the act of producing something only when an order is placed, implying customization.

built to exact measurements

Emphasizes precision and dimensional accuracy during construction.

engineered for purpose

Highlights the engineering aspect and emphasizes fitness for a specific task.

adapted to meet needs

Suggests modification or adjustment to fulfill specific needs or demands.

FAQs

How do you use "made to specification" in a sentence?

You can say, "The components were "made to specification" to ensure compatibility with the existing system" or "The device was "custom-built" to our requirements".

What is an alternative to the phrase "made to specification"?

Alternatives include "tailor-made", "custom-built", or "specifically designed". The choice depends on the context and the level of formality required.

When should I use "made to specification" instead of "custom-made"?

"Made to specification" emphasizes adherence to a precise set of requirements, typically technical or functional. "Custom-made" focuses more on personalization and individual preferences. Therefore, technical components are more likely to be ""made to specification"" and clothing is more likely to be custom-made.

Is it correct to say "made to specifications" (plural)?

While "specification" can refer to a set of requirements, it is usually used in the singular when referring to the general act of manufacturing. Using the plural, "specifications", is not incorrect if referring to a set of distinct requirements, however it is less common.