must be particular

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "must be particular" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when emphasizing the need for specificity or attention to detail in a given context. Example: "When it comes to safety regulations, you must be particular about following every guideline."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

But the causes of a particular thing must be particular, whereas those of a common nature must be universal.

SEP

Although Spinoza's term 'express' (exprimere) is notoriously unclear, it may mean something like "is a particular form of". In that case, because particular things are expressions of God's essence, his power, they must be particular forms of power.

SEP

Such a conception derives from the assumption of a hermeneutical principle which is clearly formulated by Burley for the first time in the latter work, where he observes that the causes of a particular effect must be particular as well, and those of a universal effect must be universal.

SEP

But you must be particular and make sure it is clear.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

As Cohen notes, some things Aristotle says in his Metaphysics suggest that forms, as substances, must be particulars; other things he says suggest that forms, as objects of knowledge, must be universals.

SEP

Human law must be the particular application of natural law.

Encyclopedia Britannica

If it was secret, people reason, it must be of particular sensitivity and importance.

The New York Times

The coarsening of public life must be a particular agony for the steward of shows such as Brother, I'll Prove I'm the Father of Your Ex-Girlfriend's Baby.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Although the media rules are primarily decided by the Premier League and the Football League, Stanistreet wrote to Dyke as she felt the issue must be of particular interest to him "as a former journalist".

The Guardian

4) Restoring fair and balanced trade with China in all aspects must be a particular priority.

Huffington Post

It also affects surrounding businesses and communities, who have valid concerns that must be addressed in particular, concerns about access by minors".

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing instructions or guidelines, use "must be particular" to emphasize the importance of specific requirements or steps. This helps ensure clarity and reduces the likelihood of errors or misunderstandings.

Common error

Avoid using "must be particular" when a general guideline is sufficient. Overemphasizing the need for detail can sometimes create unnecessary complexity or confusion. Assess whether the context truly requires meticulous attention or if a broader approach is more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "must be particular" functions as a modal verb phrase, indicating a necessity or requirement for specificity. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase emphasizes the need for accuracy and detailed attention. The examples provided by Ludwig, though limited, show consistent usage in scenarios where precision is paramount.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "must be particular" is a grammatically correct modal verb phrase that expresses the necessity for specificity and attention to detail. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, particularly in contexts where accuracy is paramount. While categorized as having uncommon frequency, its usage is consistent across science, news and media, and wiki sources. When using this phrase, ensure that the context truly warrants such detailed attention, and be mindful of alternative phrases like "must be specific" or "must be precise".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

must be specific

Focuses on the need for detailed and unambiguous information.

must be precise

Highlights the importance of accuracy and exactness.

must be detailed

Emphasizes the need for thoroughness and comprehensiveness.

needs to be exact

Stresses the necessity of being perfectly accurate.

needs to be meticulous

Highlights the importance of thoroughness and carefulness.

has to be accurate

Focuses on correctness and freedom from error.

has to be thorough

Emphasizes the need to cover all aspects and details.

should be clarified

Suggests a need for making something more understandable.

should be explicit

Highlights the necessity of being clearly and directly stated.

it is important to clarify

Emphasizes the importance of making something clear and easily understood.

FAQs

How can I use "must be particular" in a sentence?

Use "must be particular" to emphasize the importance of specific requirements or details. For example, "When calibrating scientific instruments, you "must be particular" about each measurement".

What can I say instead of "must be particular"?

Alternatives include "must be specific", "must be precise", or "needs to be exact" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "must be particular"?

It's appropriate when accuracy and attention to detail are crucial for achieving the desired outcome, especially in technical, scientific, or legal contexts.

Is "must be particular" interchangeable with "should be particular"?

No, "must be particular" indicates a requirement, whereas "should be particular" suggests a recommendation. Use "must" when adherence is essential, and "should" when it's advisable but not mandatory.