specifically describe

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "specifically describe" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want someone to provide detailed and precise information about a subject or topic. Example: "In your report, please specifically describe the methods used in your research to ensure clarity and understanding."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

The company had used existing state and federal guidelines for labeling, a system that does not specifically describe a "natural flavor".

The New York Times

The statement did not specifically describe the content but said it "was vulgar, offensive and insulting, not just to women and African Americans but to anyone with a sense of common decency".

The New York Times

There's no other single word in English to specifically describe someone from the United States, though such words exist in the three other major languages in our hemisphere: the Spanish "estadounidense," the French Canadian "états-unien" and the Portuguese "estadunidense".

The New York Times

An exact model is developed to specifically describe the problem.

Journal of King Saud University - Engineering Sciences

The makers specifically describe it as a "work-out" at such speeds.

TechCrunch

We could more specifically describe the notion as [−quantified][+increasing][−similar][+bounded][±future-oriented].

Lingua Sinica

The following sections will specifically describe the improvement developed in the proposed transcoder.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

The report was unusual for the United Nations in so specifically describing the deficiencies of rich countries' policies.

The New York Times

Tellingly, when I interviewed McNeil in 2014, he specifically described himself as a leader rather than a manager, adding: "I've never done any finance or management courses".

The Guardian

Had he intended the advertisement solely to draw support from Vice President Al Gore, Mr. Bradley might have specifically described himself as the Democrat who is reliable on abortion.

The New York Times

The state police bomb squad removed the device, which was not specifically described, from Ms. Roy's property for testing, The News-Times of Danbury reported yesterday.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "specifically describe", ensure that the subsequent description provides concrete details and avoids ambiguity. This enhances clarity and understanding for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "specifically describe" only to provide a general overview. Ensure the description that follows offers precise information. For example, instead of "specifically describe the problem", provide details such as "specifically describe the scope, impact, and potential solutions to the problem".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "specifically describe" functions as a directive, typically used to request a detailed and precise account of something. Ludwig provides examples where it introduces explanations in reports, studies, and general communications, emphasizing the need for clarity and thoroughness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

52%

News & Media

34%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "specifically describe" is a phrase used to request detailed and precise information, commonly employed in academic, scientific, and professional contexts. As Ludwig AI shows, the phrase directs the audience to provide a thorough explanation, avoiding ambiguity. It functions as a directive to elicit comprehensive details. Its frequency is categorized as common, and its register is considered neutral tending toward formal. While the phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted, ensuring the description following "specifically describe" is sufficiently detailed is essential for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

detail precisely

Focuses on the accuracy and thoroughness of the description.

explain in detail

Emphasizes the act of making something clear through a comprehensive account.

clearly outline

Highlights the clarity and structure of the description.

define explicitly

Stresses the unambiguous nature of the definition provided.

elaborate thoroughly

Indicates a complete and extensive development of the subject.

portray accurately

Concentrates on the faithfulness and precision of the representation.

depict graphically

Emphasizes the use of visual or figurative language to create a vivid image.

narrate comprehensively

Highlights the completeness of the storytelling or recounting.

set forth precisely

Focuses on presenting information in an exact and orderly manner.

spell out clearly

Indicates a direct and easy-to-understand explanation.

FAQs

How can I use "specifically describe" in a sentence?

You can use "specifically describe" to ask for a detailed explanation, such as "Please specifically describe the steps you took to resolve the issue" or "The report should specifically describe the experimental methods used".

What phrases are similar to "specifically describe"?

Alternatives include "detail precisely", "explain in detail", or "clearly outline", which all emphasize providing detailed information.

When is it appropriate to use "specifically describe" in writing?

"Specifically describe" is appropriate when you need a thorough and unambiguous explanation of a topic, process, or event. It is often used in academic, scientific, and professional contexts where precision is important.

What's the difference between "specifically describe" and "generally describe"?

"Specifically describe" asks for precise details, while "generally describe" asks for a broad overview. Using "specifically describe" indicates that you require a detailed and unambiguous account, not just a summary.