specifically so

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "specifically so" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize a particular point or detail that has been mentioned, indicating that it is true in a specific context. Example: "The results of the experiment were inconclusive, specifically so when considering the variables involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I'm not looking at you specifically, so don't squirm [laughter].

The Guardian

11.07pm GMT Tom goes back to Top Gun specifically so that Kelly McGillis can jump him.

The Guardian - Film

Even more vexing, Cuba manager Higinio Velez had removed the pitchers after 30 pitches specifically so they would be available.

The New York Times - Sports

But the city is leasing the garage to Shamrock monthly specifically so it can watch for problems, Ms. Collins said.

The New York Times

As Lowe put it, "Caravaggio grounded his canvas specifically so that he'd break down the edges while he painted".

The New Yorker

Sandra Choi says she sometimes looks at Blahnik's shoes specifically so she won't be accused of ripping him off.

The New York Times - Magazine

And because they are painted specifically so that you, the viewer, are part of the scene, they become totally mesmerising.

The Guardian - Arts

I wore a tartan dress specifically so I could open by saying that I looked like a tin of shortbread.

The Guardian

Why, then, does Stephen Fry wish that the iPhone didn't have a camera – specifically, so that the arrival of the selfie might have been avoided?

The Guardian - Tech

The company bought the Dassult jet in 2008 specifically so that it could fulfil the terms of its lease at Ames.

The Guardian - Tech

But it was not an emergency appeal and would not be made specifically so that Peter Gotti could attend the funeral, Mr. Cutler said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "specifically so", ensure that the context makes it clear what the 'so' refers to, avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "specifically so" in casual conversation; it can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "that's why" or "because of that" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "specifically so" functions as an adverbial phrase or purpose connector. It introduces a clause that explains the direct intention or reason behind an action or decision. Ludwig examples confirm its role in clarifying purpose.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

18%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "specifically so" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed connector used to clarify the intent or reason behind an action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is most common in journalistic writing and scientific discourse where precision is valued. Though its use is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in informal contexts where simpler alternatives may be more appropriate. When precision matters, "specifically so" ensures clarity in expressing purpose.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

precisely for that reason

Adds emphasis to the reason being stated.

for that express purpose

Stresses the clarity and defined nature of the goal.

expressly for this purpose

Highlights the clear and deliberate nature of the purpose.

for that specific reason

Emphasizes the reason behind an action more directly.

to that precise end

Highlights the exactness of the intended result.

in order to achieve that

Focuses on the achievement of a specific objective.

with the explicit goal of

Emphasizes the clarity and intentionality of the objective.

with that intention

Highlights the intended outcome of an action.

with particular intent

Focuses on the deliberate and planned aspect of an action.

uniquely for that reason

Implies that the reason is exclusive and particular.

FAQs

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

Use "specifically so" to highlight a particular reason or purpose. For example: "The software was designed "specifically so" that users could easily customize their settings."

What are some alternatives to using "specifically so"?

Alternatives include "for that reason", "for that purpose", or "with that intention" depending on the context.

Is "specifically so" interchangeable with "especially so"?

While both indicate emphasis, "specifically so" points to a particular reason, whereas "especially so" indicates a greater degree. Using "especially so" implies something is particularly true, not necessarily intentional.

What's the difference between "specifically so" and "particularly so"?

"Specifically so" indicates a distinct reason or intention, while "particularly so" simply means 'especially' or 'notably'. The former highlights purpose, the latter degree.