specify that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "specify that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize the details of what you are saying. For example, "I would like to specify that we need to complete the project by next week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

· The rules specify that competitors are banned from smoking on or near the playing area.

The Guardian - Sport

Click on "Add Comments" and specify that you would prefer them green.

The New York Times

Signs at the ball field specify that the league is not responsible.

The New York Times - Magazine

In front of the Capitol last Monday, Obama did not specify that creed.

The New Yorker

He is Asian-American; the film does not specify that he is Chinese-American.

The New York Times

National Archives guidelines specify that all government-related records must be saved.

The New York Times - Tech

World trade agreements specify that import quotas on textiles and clothing must end by 2005.

The Economist

In addition, the rules specify that apps cannot be used to collect donations.

The New York Times

Contracts also specify that dealers must maintain service facilities according to standards approved by the manufacturer.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The two big chains even specify that Spotless hangers must be used in purchase orders.

Forbes

The ordinance does not specify that banned items are commercial.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "specify that", ensure the details you are providing are relevant and add clarity to the overall statement. Over-specifying can lead to unnecessary complexity.

Common error

Avoid using "specify that" when the detail is already implied or obvious from the context. This can make your writing sound verbose and less impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "specify that" functions as a connector, introducing a subordinate clause that provides precise details or requirements related to the main clause. Ludwig AI highlights its common use in clarifying rules, conditions, or preferences, adding a layer of explicitness to the statement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Wiki

32%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "specify that" is a versatile connector used to introduce detailed information, clarify requirements, and ensure precision in communication. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used, particularly in news, wiki articles, and professional contexts. When using "specify that", it's important to ensure that the added details are relevant and contribute to overall clarity, avoiding redundancy. Alternatives include "indicate that" or "clarify that", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

indicate that

Focuses on pointing out or showing something, often as evidence or a sign.

stipulate that

Implies a condition or requirement that must be met, often in a formal agreement.

designate that

Emphasizes the act of officially assigning or naming something for a specific purpose.

clarify that

Highlights the act of making something easier to understand by providing more detail.

define that

Focuses on providing a precise meaning or explanation of something.

state that

A general way of saying something formally and clearly, but with less emphasis on detail.

determine that

Focuses on the process of finding something out, coming to a resolution or decision.

prescribe that

Highlights laying down, in writing or otherwise, a course of action that should be carried out.

elucidate that

Emphasizes making something clear and easy to understand.

detail that

Highlights the act of giving full details of something.

FAQs

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

Use "specify that" to introduce a particular detail or condition that needs to be clearly stated. For instance, "The contract must "stipulate that" all payments are made within 30 days".

What are some alternatives to "specify that"?

You can use alternatives like "indicate that", ""stipulate that"", or "clarify that" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "specify that"?

It's appropriate to use "specify that" when you need to emphasize the details of what you are saying and ensure there is no ambiguity or misunderstanding.

Is there a difference between "specify that" and "state that"?

"State that" generally means to declare something, while "specify that" implies providing particular details or conditions within that declaration.