specify how

USAGE SUMMARY

"specify how" is a grammatically correct phrase that is often used in written English.
Examples: 1. Please specify how you plan to resolve this issue. 2. The job description must specify how many years of experience are required. 3. The recipe should specify how much salt to add for optimal flavor. 4. The contract clearly specifies how much compensation will be provided. 5. We need to specify how many guests will be attending the event.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(She didn't specify how).

The New York Times

He did not specify how.

The New York Times

He didn't specify how.

The Washington Post

Specify how workers should communicate.

Harvard Business Review

But they declined to specify how much.

The New York Times

Again, the agreement doesn't specify how long.

The Guardian - Opinion

But he did not specify how.

The New York Times

She did not specify how often.

The New York Times

She didn't specify how many hours ahead.

The New York Times - Magazine

Still, it didn't specify how much smaller.

The New York Times

BUDGET -- Specify how money will be handled.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "specify how", ensure that the subsequent explanation is clear, concise, and easily understandable to your intended audience.

Common error

Avoid using "specify how" without providing a concrete and detailed explanation. If you ask someone to specify how something should be done, make sure the response offers clear guidance, not vague generalities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "specify how" functions as an interrogative phrase used to solicit detailed instructions, methods, or procedures. As Ludwig AI points out, it directs the recipient to provide a clear and explicit explanation of how something should be done. The Ludwig examples demonstrate its common usage in seeking specific details.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Reference

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "specify how" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression used to request detailed instructions or explanations. Ludwig AI analysis, backed by numerous examples, confirms its versatility across various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Business. When using "specify how", ensure clarity and conciseness in your explanation, avoiding vague responses. While alternatives like "detail the method" or "explain the process" exist, "specify how" remains a direct and effective way to seek precise information. Steer clear of broad responses that lack detailed information when using the phrase. Sources such as The New York Times and The Washington Post exemplify authoritative usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

detail the method

Focuses on providing a thorough description of the process.

explain the process

Emphasizes clarifying the steps involved.

describe the manner

Highlights the way something is done.

define the procedure

Stresses the formal or established way of doing something.

indicate the means

Focuses on the resources or tools used.

show the way

Implies guidance or direction in achieving a goal.

elucidate the technique

Emphasizes making a technical process clear and understandable.

spell out the details

Suggests providing very specific and explicit information.

break down the steps

Highlights simplifying a process into manageable parts.

clarify the mechanics

Focuses on explaining the underlying principles or workings.

FAQs

How can I use "specify how" in a sentence?

You can use "specify how" to ask for detailed instructions or explanations, such as, "Please specify how you plan to implement these changes" or "Can you specify how this new feature will improve user experience?"

What is a more formal alternative to "specify how"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "detail the method", "explain the process", or "define the procedure" for a more professional tone. These alternatives provide a similar meaning while maintaining a higher level of formality.

Which is correct, "specify how" or "specify that"?

"Specify how" is used to request a detailed explanation of a process or method, while "specify that" is used to state a particular requirement or condition. For example, "Please specify how the data will be collected" versus "The contract specifies that all work must be completed by Friday."

What does it mean to "specify how" something should be done?

To "specify how" something should be done means to provide clear and detailed instructions outlining the exact steps, methods, or procedures that must be followed to achieve a desired outcome. It ensures clarity and minimizes ambiguity in execution.