specifically refers to

USAGE SUMMARY

"specifically refers to" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is about a particular person, object, or event as opposed to others of the same kind. For example, "Our policy specifically refers to students who are enrolled in the advanced course."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Further reference to Lactobacillus reuteri in this paper specifically refers to this specific strain of L. Reuteri DSM 17938.

BMC Pediatrics

It specifically refers to "controversial or unpopular opinions".

The Guardian - Opinion

Rejuvenation specifically refers to incision into a preexisting river system.

Geology and Landscape Evolution General Principles Applied to the United States

It specifically refers to the interrogation of Zubaydah using the water technique.

The Guardian

The I.R.S. proposal specifically refers to "physical, psychological, sexual or emotional abuse".

The New York Times

Specifically refers to a performance of "From the Canyons to the Stars" at Alice Tully Hall.

The New Yorker

The term Chippendale specifically refers to English furniture of the 1750s and '60s made in a modified Rococo style.

Britannica

"In porn, that is the whole point, unless the title specifically refers to an act that isn't anal sex.

Independent

The former specifically refers to merging data from Moves accounts into Facebook accounts, which would enable Facebook to identify people using Moves who also use Facebook.

The Guardian - Tech

(Break dancing is a general term used mostly in the news media and by amateurs, whereas b-boying specifically refers to toprocking, downrocking, freezes and power moves).

The New York Times - Arts

In a later book, His Butler's Story, Limonov specifically refers to this earlier one (which he is having difficulty selling) as "a novel".

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "specifically refers to", ensure that the reference is accurate and can be verified. Avoid vague or unsubstantiated claims.

Common error

Avoid using "specifically refers to" when a general statement is more appropriate. Using it incorrectly can make your writing sound overly formal or pedantic when a simpler term would suffice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "specifically refers to" functions as a descriptor, explicitly defining the scope or subject of a statement. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is commonly used across various contexts to provide clarity and precision.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

31%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "specifically refers to" is a versatile phrase used to add clarity and precision to writing. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, highlighting its role in defining scope and preventing ambiguity. Predominantly found in scientific, news, and encyclopedic sources, the phrase serves to focus discussions and provide verifiable references. While alternatives exist, none replicate the same degree of directness and explicitness. When crafting content, especially in formal contexts, employ "specifically refers to" to ensure your message is clear and precise. Avoid overuse in casual writing to prevent sounding overly formal. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, writers can effectively use the phrase in their communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

particularly pertains to

Focuses on relevance and direct connection but uses more formal language.

explicitly alludes to

Highlights direct reference but emphasizes a more suggestive or indirect mention.

directly concerns

Indicates a straightforward relationship or relevance, simpler and more direct.

precisely denotes

Focuses on exactness in definition or meaning, useful in technical contexts.

uniquely identifies

Emphasizes distinctiveness and singular association, relevant in categorization.

chiefly applies to

Suggests the main area of application, indicating prevalence.

is strictly defined as

Highlights a formal or legal definition, focusing on precision.

is exclusively related to

Emphasizes a sole connection, excluding other possibilities.

is tacitly understood as

Implies a shared understanding or common interpretation.

directly ties into

Focuses on connection and dependence, less formal and more dynamic.

FAQs

How can I use "specifically refers to" in a sentence?

Use "specifically refers to" to pinpoint the exact subject or element you're discussing. For example, "The term 'organic' "specifically refers to" farming practices that exclude synthetic fertilizers and pesticides".

What are some alternatives to using "specifically refers to"?

Alternatives include phrases like "particularly pertains to", "explicitly alludes to", or "directly concerns", depending on the nuance you want to convey. Each alternative offers a slightly different emphasis on the relationship being described.

Is it redundant to use "specifically" and "refers" together?

While both words individually indicate precision, their combination in the phrase "specifically refers to" emphasizes a deliberate and pointed connection. It is not necessarily redundant if clarity and precision are crucial.

When is it best to use "specifically refers to" in writing?

It's best to use "specifically refers to" when you need to eliminate ambiguity and clearly identify the subject, concept, or item your statement concerns. This is useful in technical, legal, or academic writing where precision is paramount.