specifically named

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "specifically named" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that has been clearly identified or designated by a particular name. Example: "The report focuses on the issues raised by the specifically named individuals in the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It specifically named Mr. Bhatti.

The New York Times

He specifically named Bannon, Conway, and Bossie.

The New Yorker

Telecommunications companies are specifically named in the law to stay schtum.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Windemere was not specifically named, but it was the building agreed upon.

The New York Times

"Anyone who isn't specifically named in the will still receives one of these valuable gift bags".

The New Yorker

Lieber specifically named rape as a crime serious enough to be subject to the death penalty.

The New York Times - Magazine

Syria was not specifically named in the resolution, but it was clearly aimed at Damascus.

The New York Times

Neither Huawei nor ZTE was specifically named in the Australian statement.

The New York Times - Tech

The two sites were specifically named in the notes, which were translated by Borderland Beat.

The New York Times

Vitamins and minerals are allowed, but "accessory nutrients" -- the category that describes fatty acids -- are not specifically named.

The Washington Post

The invitations to a fund-raiser he recently held specifically named Mr. Powell as a likely opponent.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "specifically named" when you want to emphasize that something or someone was not just generally referred to, but rather called out by a precise name or title. This adds clarity and precision to your writing.

Common error

While "specifically named" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing. Consider alternatives like "explicitly identified" or "expressly designated" for a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "specifically named" functions as a modifier, typically used to describe a noun or pronoun. It emphasizes that the subject was not just generally referred to, but explicitly identified using its name. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in various contexts to add precision.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "specifically named" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig. It serves to emphasize the explicit identification of something or someone by name, finding common usage in news, scientific writing and formal documentation. Its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse writing purposes. Ludwig's examples show that you can also use alternative terms like "explicitly identified" or "expressly designated" to convey the same meaning with subtly different nuances. Remember that using "specifically named" adds clarity, but avoid overuse in highly formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clearly identified

Highlights the clarity of the identification

unambiguously identified

Emphasizes the lack of ambiguity in the identification.

explicitly identified

Focuses on the act of identification rather than the naming itself.

expressly mentioned

Focuses on the act of mentioning something explicitly.

expressly designated

Emphasizes formal designation and purpose.

precisely designated

Emphasizes exactness in the designation.

particularly identified

Highlights a specific instance of identification.

directly cited

Implies a direct reference or quotation.

individually identified

Focuses on the unique identity of each item or person.

definitely stipulated

Suggests a condition or requirement that is clearly laid out.

FAQs

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

You can use "specifically named" to emphasize that someone or something was identified by a particular name, as in "The document "specifically named" three individuals as suspects".

What phrases are similar to "specifically named"?

Alternatives include phrases like "explicitly identified", "expressly designated", or "clearly identified" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "specifically named" formal or informal?

"Specifically named" is suitable for both neutral and formal contexts. Its formality depends on the surrounding language and the overall tone of the writing.

When should I use "specifically named" instead of "mentioned"?

Use "specifically named" when you want to highlight that the naming was intentional and precise, rather than a casual mention. "Mentioned" is more general, while "specifically named" emphasizes the clarity and directness of the naming.