specify on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "specify on" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that more specific information or details will be provided on a particular topic. Example: Please specify on the type of project you would like to work on.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

(Contrast Moran 2004, discussed toward this section's end, who takes the same answer to commit one to being able to specify, on demand, exactly what one finds pleasant and how).

SEP

(You may specify, on the initial client questionnaire, "no cheap hotels, no sex").

The New Yorker

It did not specify on which issue the stay was granted.

The New York Times

He did not specify on Wednesday how the $65 million should be generated.

The Washington Post

Ms. Sweeney did not specify on what day Los Angeles prosecutors were informed of the request.

The New York Times

A photographer does not have to specify on the photo or the website that the photo is protected by copyright.

The Guardian

For the first time, she said, applicants will be able to specify on which properties they would prefer to live.

The Washington Post

CNBC did not specify on Friday how the channel would replace Ms. Burnett, whom it hired in 2005.

The New York Times

Or you could specify on here how you would like your £100 bet to be staked in the event of success, which would make things easier.

The Guardian - Sport

Perfect.com's technology was inspired by the government's "request-for-purchase" system, which allows agencies to specify on paper dozens of requirements for the things they buy.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Applicants will also be able to specify on-line which letters they want the individual schools to receive.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "specify on", ensure that the context clearly indicates what the specification refers to and where it should be indicated. For example, "Specify on the application form which course you are applying for".

Common error

A common mistake is using "specify in" or "specify at" instead of "specify on". Remember that "on" is typically used when referring to a surface or a document where information is written or indicated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "specify on" functions as a phrasal verb, where "specify" is the verb and "on" is the preposition. It is typically used to indicate that specific details or instructions should be provided directly on a surface or document. This is supported by Ludwig examples which show usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Academia

24%

Wiki

21%

Less common in

Science

18%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "specify on" is a phrasal verb used to indicate the provision of specific details or instructions directly on a surface or document. Ludwig's AI analysis confirms that it is grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, including news media, academia, and general instructions. While "specify on" enjoys broad applicability, users should be mindful to not confuse it with similar alternatives, like "specify in", to properly convey the intended meaning. To ensure clear and effective communication, always check that the context allows to determine what the user should specify and where.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spell out on

Focuses on providing very clear and detailed instructions to avoid misunderstanding.

detail on

Emphasizes the provision of extensive and thorough information.

define on

Changes the verb to 'define', implying a clearer boundary or meaning is being assigned to something.

stipulate on

Suggests a formal and explicit requirement or condition.

indicate on

Replaces 'specify' with 'indicate', suggesting a less detailed or precise form of pointing out.

prescribe on

Implies a rule or recommendation about what should be done.

designate on

Uses 'designate' to imply assigning a specific role or purpose to something on something else.

set out on

Describes a clear and organized presentation of information or instructions.

state on

Substituting 'specify' with 'state' implies a more direct and less nuanced form of declaration.

lay down on

Conveys the act of establishing rules or guidelines authoritatively.

FAQs

How to use "specify on" in a sentence?

Use "specify on" to indicate providing particular details or requirements directly on something, such as a form or document. Example: "Please "specify on" the application your preferred start date".

What can I say instead of "specify on"?

Alternatives include phrases like "detail on", "indicate on", or "stipulate on". The best choice depends on the level of formality and the context.

Is it correct to say "specify in" instead of "specify on"?

While "specify in" might seem similar, "specify on" is generally used when providing details directly on a document, form, or surface. "Specify in" is more appropriate when the details are contained within something, like a report.

What's the difference between "specify on" and "elaborate on"?

"Specify on" refers to providing precise details on something, while "elaborate on" means to add more information or explanation to a topic. The former is about precision, the latter about expansion.