specify using

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "specify using" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want someone to provide details or clarification in a particular manner or format. Example: "Please specify using the format provided in the guidelines to ensure consistency."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Occasionally, composers specify using the fingers to set the membrane in vibration.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The mortar manufacturer might specify using a notched trowel with teeth a quarter-inch tall spaced a quarter-inch apart, which is fine for applying the correct amount.

The Washington Post

We decide to use the Cstat fit statistic and Nelder-Mead optimization method for fitting this data, which we specify using the set_stat and set_method commands.

Harvard University

You have to specify, using a different verbal form, whether this was directly experienced (you saw the animal passing), inferred (you saw footprints), conjectured (animals generally pass there that time of day), hearsay or such.

The New York Times - Magazine

(The user has the option to specify using the taxonomic group two or more levels up, instead).

Plosone

Choices were presented as the branded names and included "Actonel", "Boniva", "Evista", "Forteo", "Fosamax", "Fosamax Plus D", "Miacalcin", "hormonal treatment", and "Other" (asked to specify using free text).

BMC Women's Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

In Section II, we specify used system models.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

So, let us first define a basic TAL template for slide shows specified using NCL language.

Journal of the Brazilian Computer Society

designed and specified using different formalisms.

University of California, Berkeley

The parameters are specified using experimental data.

Applied Energy

All regions are specified using standard region library syntax.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing technical documentation, ensure you "specify using" clear and concise language to avoid ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid adding unnecessary jargon when you "specify using" a method; clarity enhances understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "specify using" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of detailing something through a particular means. Ludwig examples show it's often used to describe how instructions or parameters are defined.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

38%

Academia

31%

News & Media

12%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "specify using" is a grammatically correct phrase used to indicate how details or instructions are provided. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and shows that it's most commonly found in scientific and academic contexts, indicating a formal register. While not as common as other phrases, it is a useful expression when you need to be precise about the method of specification. Consider alternatives like "detail with" or "clarify using" for variety. When writing, aim for clarity and avoid unnecessary jargon to ensure your message is easily understood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

define by means of

Emphasizes the method of definition rather than simple specification.

designate with

Focuses on assigning a particular role or characteristic through a specific means.

indicate via

Highlights the act of pointing out or showing something using a particular medium.

stipulate through

Suggests a formal and legally binding method of specifying something.

determine by

Focuses on the act of finding out or establishing something through a specific method.

detail with

Emphasizes providing a lot of information using something specific.

clarify using

Emphasizes making something clear or easier to understand by means of something.

prescribe with

Highlights the act of recommending or ordering something to be done using something specific.

set out by means of

Emphasizes laying out a plan or intention through a certain method.

express via

Focuses on conveying a thought or feeling through a particular channel.

FAQs

How do I use "specify using" in a sentence?

You can use "specify using" to indicate the method or tool used to provide details. For example, "Please specify using the provided form."

What can I say instead of "specify using"?

Alternatives include "detail with", "clarify using", or "indicate via", depending on the context.

Is it better to "specify using" or "define using"?

"Specify using" is generally used when providing explicit instructions or methods, while "define using" is used when providing a meaning or scope. The choice depends on whether you're instructing or defining.

When is it appropriate to "specify using" a particular format?

It's appropriate to "specify using" a format when consistency is required, or when a particular method ensures compatibility or ease of understanding.