specified how

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "specified how" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the manner or method in which something has been detailed or described. Example: "The report specified how the new policy would be implemented across all departments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Mr. Hastert has not specified how the steering committee plans to choose.

The New York Times

Then he specified how she should push his chair across the canvas.

The New York Times

The bill that passed Wednesday specified how that plan was to be put in effect.

The New York Times

Mr. McCain pledges to somehow close a budget deficit topping $400 billion, but has not specified how.

The New York Times

Activision has not specified how many tracks will be available from launch, although the press release says "hundreds".

The Guardian - Tech

In some cases, the task force has specified how frequently a service, like colonoscopy, should be performed.

The New York Times

Not satisfied with a generalized warning, he specified how much JPMorgan Chase could lose if the boom times ended.

The New York Times - Magazine

Labor Labor has announced a $1bn plan to create 100,000 jobs over four years, but has not specified how it will fund it.

The Guardian

The UN has not said which countries are involved or specified how many troops have been accused, but sources said the soldiers were from Gabon, Egypt and Morocco.

The Guardian

Pearson has not specified how the body would be selected but Twomey said that would likely be decided and legislated by the parliament.

The Guardian

RBS has not specified how many people have been affected but it has more than 13 million customers across its three brands.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "specified how" to clearly and precisely detail the steps or methods involved in a process or plan. This helps avoid ambiguity and ensures clear understanding.

Common error

Avoid using passive voice constructions when clarity and directness are needed. For example, instead of "It was specified how the task should be done", use "The instructions specified how to complete the task".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "specified how" functions as a connector introducing a clause that details the method or procedure for something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "specified how" is a grammatically correct and widely used English expression. Ludwig AI analysis, along with the examples provided, demonstrates its frequent use in detailing methods and procedures, primarily in news and scientific contexts. It serves to provide clarity and precision. When writing, ensure directness and avoid overuse of the passive voice to maintain clarity. While alternatives like "described how" or "explained how" may be used, "specified how" emphasizes that precise instructions are available.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

described how

Focuses on giving details about a process or event.

disclosed how

Emphasizes revealing information about a method that was previously unknown.

identified how

Highlights the act of recognizing or pointing out a particular method or approach.

defined how

Focuses on setting out the meaning or scope of a method.

clarified how

Emphasizes making a method easier to understand.

detailed the method

Provides a comprehensive account of the process.

explained the process

Offers a clear and understandable account of the procedure.

illustrated the technique

Uses examples or diagrams to show how something is done.

outlined the approach

Presents the main features or general principles of a method.

indicated the way

Points out or shows the direction or method to be followed.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "specified how"?

You can use alternatives like "described how", "disclosed how", or "identified how" depending on the context.

How do I use "specified how" in a sentence?

Use "specified how" to indicate that detailed instructions or methods have been provided. For example, "The manual specified how to install the software correctly."

What's the difference between "specified how" and "indicated how"?

"Specified how" implies a detailed explanation, while "indicated how" suggests a more general direction or suggestion. The former is more precise.

Is it better to use "specified how" or "explained how"?

Both are correct, but "specified how" emphasizes that precise details were given, whereas "explained how" simply means something was made clear. Choose based on the level of detail you want to convey.