specifically state

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "specifically state" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize the need for clear and precise information or details in a statement. Example: "In your report, please specifically state the findings of your research to avoid any ambiguity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Specifically, state law would be pre-empted with regard to too common predatory practices.

The New York Times

At the time, the company did not specifically state the purpose of the acquisition.

The New York Times

I specifically state that I am not asking for that fund".

The New York Times

The regulations do not specifically state how Con Ed would have to deal with a near doubling of manhole fires last year compared with earlier years.

The New York Times

And yet the Harvard Criteria, the ur-text of brain death published in 1968, specifically state that there should be no reflexes and no movement.

The New York Times

And church defenders insist that the Book of Mormon does not specifically state that all modern tribes are descended from the Lamanites.

The Economist

Macro-hedge accounting rules specifically state that banks may use the loophole only for the purpose of reducing risk which they claim to be doing.

The Economist

The updated terms of service were clarified to specifically state: "Our automated systems analyse your content (including emails) to provide you personally relevant product features, such as customised search results, tailored advertising, and spam and malware detection.

The Guardian - Tech

However LBTH [London borough of Tower Hamlets] has checked the minutes of the LCC general purposes committee for 15 May 1962, which authorised the purchase and these specifically state that the statue was "to be sited in Stifford Estate (Stepney)".

The Guardian - Arts

For an unmarried couple to achieve a similar result, Mr. Michelson said, they must specifically state on the deed that they are taking title as "joint tenants with right of survivorship".

The New York Times

The only solution is to specifically state, 'sponsored' in each…".

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "specifically state", ensure that the information you are conveying is unambiguous and leaves no room for misinterpretation. This is especially important in legal, scientific, or technical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "specifically state" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "say" or "mention" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "specifically state" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of expressing something in a clear, detailed, and unambiguous manner. Ludwig examples confirm its use to emphasize the need for precision in communication.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "specifically state" is a verb phrase used to emphasize the need for clear, detailed, and unambiguous communication. Ludwig AI data shows it's prevalent in News & Media, Science, and Wiki contexts. Use this phrase when precision is critical, particularly in formal writing, legal documents, or scientific reports. While grammatically correct and frequently used, avoid overusing it in informal contexts, where simpler alternatives may be more appropriate. To guarantee clarity, avoid being generic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expressly mention

Focuses on making a direct and unambiguous reference.

clearly articulate

Highlights the clarity and eloquence in expressing something.

explicitly declare

Emphasizes an open and unambiguous declaration.

precisely define

Focuses on accuracy and exactness in defining something.

clearly stipulate

Indicates a clear and definite requirement or condition.

state unequivocally

Emphasizes the lack of doubt or ambiguity in the statement.

pinpoint exactly

Highlights locating or identifying something with great precision.

detail meticulously

Focuses on providing extensive and careful details.

spell out explicitly

Emphasizes removing any ambiguity through detailed explanation.

indicate precisely

Highlights the accuracy in pointing something out.

FAQs

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

Use "specifically state" when you need to emphasize the importance of being clear and direct. For example, "The contract should "specifically state" the payment terms to avoid any confusion."

What are some alternatives to "specifically state"?

You can use alternatives like "expressly mention", "clearly articulate", or "explicitly declare", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "specifically state"?

It's appropriate to use "specifically state" in formal writing, legal documents, or any situation where clarity and precision are essential.

What's the difference between "specifically state" and "generally mention"?

"Specifically state" implies providing detailed and precise information, while "generally mention" means to refer to something in a broad or non-detailed way.