specify

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "specify" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you need to be specific about something, such as when giving instructions. Example sentence: Please specify which items you would like me to pick up at the store.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(Both Ms. Harris and representatives from the brand declined to specify the networks).

The New York Times

The MPs and peers suggested that the new legislation should list every intrusive capability available to the security services and specify their purpose, authorisation procedure and what safeguards and oversight procedures exist for their use.

The Guardian

The source did not specify what the goal of the mission was.

The Guardian

He will have to specify measures that will be painful domestically while keeping Greece's partners on board.

The Guardian

"Policies need to specify that problems faced by disabled girls are different, and must actively include girls in mainstream systems, such as schools".

The Guardian

Kutsuplus lets riders specify their own desired pick-up points and destinations via smartphone; these requests are aggregated, and the app calculates an optimal route that most closely satisfies all of them.

The Guardian

Coca-Cola Femsa did not specify the nature of the threats, but said they were directed at delivery personnel.

The Guardian

Even though he didn't specify where we were on a similar 30-year curve (I hope to God nearer the end than the beginning. It might not take 30 years this time, because of the internet), I suddenly understood the point.

The Guardian

Ahead of each fortnightly iteration the BAs would specify the forthcoming fortnight's tasks in much greater detail, sufficient to be implemented.

The Guardian

Related: Kommunar, east Ukraine: 'Nothing to eat, nothing to do, no point in life' A spokesman, Oleksandr Motuzianik, did not specify the number of instructors, but said training would be rolled out over a two-month period.

The Guardian

For the ISC also sets out very clear limits to this exercise in transparency and that means it won't be practicable to "specify the detail of certain arrangements in legislation".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing instructions or requirements, use "specify" to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity. For example, "Please specify the exact dimensions needed for the replacement part."

Common error

Avoid using "specify" when you actually mean "suggest" or "recommend". "Specify" implies a higher degree of precision and requirement, not just a casual suggestion.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "specify" is as a transitive verb. It is used to indicate the act of stating something explicitly, in detail, or as a condition. As seen in Ludwig's examples, it helps in clarifying requirements and intentions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Science

34%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "specify" is a very common verb used to provide precise details or requirements to avoid ambiguity. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely applicable across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science. When aiming for clarity, using "specify" can help ensure your message is accurately understood. Remember to use it when precision is key, rather than as a casual suggestion. For alternative phrasing, consider options like "define precisely" or "state unambiguously".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Define precisely

Emphasizes clarity and exactness in definition.

State unambiguously

Focuses on avoiding any possibility of misunderstanding.

Clarify explicitly

Highlights the act of making something easier to understand with exactness.

Delineate clearly

Highlights the act of outlining or defining something with precision.

Identify clearly

Focuses on the act of recognizing and pointing out something distinctly.

Set forth

More formal and often used in legal or official contexts to present information.

Designate explicitly

Suggests formally assigning a specific role or characteristic.

Lay down

Implies establishing rules or conditions clearly.

Detail meticulously

Emphasizes thoroughness and precision in providing information.

Spell out

Suggests explaining something in a very simple and direct manner.

FAQs

How to use "specify" in a sentence?

Use "specify" when you need to state something explicitly or in detail. For example, "The contract should specify the payment terms clearly."

What can I say instead of "specify"?

You can use alternatives like "define precisely", "designate explicitly", or "state unambiguously" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "specify" or "suggest"?

"Specify" implies a requirement or precise detail, while "suggest" offers a recommendation or possibility. Choose the word that accurately reflects the level of instruction or detail you intend to convey.

What's the difference between "specify" and "describe"?

"Specify" focuses on providing precise details or requirements, whereas "describe" involves giving a general account or representation of something. "Specify" is more directive and exact, as in: "Please specify the file format you need."