Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
the document specifies
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "the document specifies" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to details or requirements outlined in a document. Example: "According to the policy manual, the document specifies the procedures for employee conduct."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Formal & Business
Alternative expressions(20)
it explicitly states
it specifically states
it unambiguously declares
the document details
it clearly hopes
the text explicitly mentions
it clearly comes
it expressly states
it distinctly indicates
it clearly excites
the document states
it explicitly specifies
it clearly has
it clearly burdens
it clearly wants
the document indicates
it clearly states
it clearly fails
the document mentions
it clearly responds
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
9 human-written examples
The document specifies that the attacks would be aimed at Spanish forces within Iraq — there is no call for action in Spain.
News & Media
The document specifies medals won by Hubbard, including a Purple Heart with a Palm, implying that he was wounded in action twice.
News & Media
Several Democratic lawmakers asserted on Wednesday that the memorandum led directly to the abuses of detainees at Abu Ghraib, although the document specifies that it applies only to "unlawful combatants," a label that would not apply to the largely Iraqi population captured during the Iraq war.
News & Media
The document specifies that if the cats — Lou Lou, Mimi and Johnny — outlive Ms. Schiro and her mother, they will be taken to a retirement community at the North Shore Animal League America, where they will live out their days, paid for by money set aside for them.
News & Media
The document specifies interfaces between releases and information systems and the technical infrastructure.
The data-sharing agreement with DeepMind is set to run until September 29, 2017, after which the document specifies that all data be transferred back to the NHS trust and any residual data be destroyed.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
51 human-written examples
However, the document specified that the vicar of St Nicholas-at-Wade with All Saints' had to pay £3.3s.4d (£3.17) annually to the vicar of Reculver "as a sign of subjection".
Wiki
Although the document specified that bigamy could be sanctioned only under rare conditions, Philip took it as approval for his marriage to a lady-in-waiting of his sister.
Wiki
A manual of the developed research: this document specifies the sample selection, the protocol used for the randomization of the sample into the two experiments, the protocol of the whole experiment, and the collection and analysis of the data.
The documents specified a blast roughly 2,000 feet above a target — considered high enough for a nuclear detonation to maximize the damage below.
News & Media
However, the documents specified clearly only the main funder, and very likely many projects were funded from several sources.
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "the document specifies" to clearly indicate that the information you are presenting is directly stated in the document being referenced.
Common error
Avoid repetitive use of "the document specifies" within a short span. Vary your language by using alternatives like "the document outlines" or "the document details" to maintain reader engagement.
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "the document specifies" functions as a declarative statement introducing details, requirements, or conditions that are explicitly stated within a particular document. As shown by Ludwig, this phrase is frequently used to clarify the origin of specific information.
Frequent in
News & Media
43%
Science
43%
Formal & Business
14%
Less common in
Wiki
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "the document specifies" is a phrase used to introduce information directly stated within a document. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and serves to provide clarity and authority to the information presented. While generally found in neutral to professional contexts such as news, science, and formal business settings, it's important to avoid overuse and consider alternatives like "the document details" or "the document outlines" for stylistic variation. The related FAQs address common questions about usage and potential alternatives.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
the document details
Replaces "specifies" with a more general term, indicating a description of details.
the document outlines
Focuses on the structural aspect of the document presenting key points.
the document stipulates
Highlights a mandatory or required aspect within the document.
the document lays out
Emphasizes a clear and organized presentation of information.
the document prescribes
Indicates a set of rules or recommendations provided by the document.
the document defines
Highlights the document's role in establishing definitions or meanings.
the document indicates
Suggests the document points to or suggests something, rather than explicitly stating it.
the document mentions
Implies a casual or brief reference to something within the document.
the document sets forth
Formal and emphasizes a structured and methodical presentation.
the document elucidates
More formal and indicates that the document makes something clear and easy to understand.
FAQs
What can I say instead of "the document specifies"?
You can use alternatives like "the document details", "the document outlines", or "the document stipulates" depending on the context.
How to use "the document specifies" in a sentence?
Use "the document specifies" to introduce information, rules, or requirements that are explicitly mentioned in a particular document. For example: "The contract specifies that all payments must be made within 30 days."
Is it redundant to say "the document specifies"?
No, it is not inherently redundant. The phrase is useful for directly attributing information to a particular source, enhancing clarity and accountability.
What is the difference between "the document specifies" and "the document implies"?
"The document specifies" means the information is directly stated, while "the document implies" means the information is suggested but not explicitly stated. Therefore, using "the document specifies" confirms that the information can be found directly in the original source.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested