to make it specific

USAGE SUMMARY

"to make it specific" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this expression to indicate that you are adding further detail in order to be more precise. For example: "I could give you some general advice, but to make it specific, here are a few steps you can take to reach your goal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

To make it specific and different, begin by naming a body part and ask them how it contributed to their life.

Huffington Post

"If someone did a big event in Orange County, they would have to make it specific to Orange County," he said.

Los Angeles Times

"I just want to express how thankful I am to hear what is typically a sort of like murmured, pseudo-conversation because we've all been talking about this forever �� not to make it specific, but it is, about this motherfucker," the "American Ultra" actress said, noting it's a conversation women have had "a million times".

Huffington Post

The parameters used in CLUSTALW were tuned to make it specific for PBs instead of amino acid residues.

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Neither of these characters are African-American, but many hip-hop gangsta figures have been able to appropriate their imagery and make it specific to their own circumstances.

The New York Times - Books

"Each child's programme looks very different and we make it specific to what's going on in their life.

The Guardian

If you intend to study for a masters, make it specific rather than general, so focus on the particular area of international development that interests you.

The Guardian

I wanted to leave the image open, allowing it to become a symbol rather than make it specific".

Huffington Post

The next step is to set a business objective -- and make it specific.

Forbes

2. Make it specific: Try to avoid blanket expressions of gratitude say thank you for something specific.

Forbes

"A lot of what we criticize about hip-hop, we tend to make it black specific, or ghetto specific, or male specific.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to make it specific" when you need to provide additional details to clarify a general statement or instruction. This phrase signals that you are moving from a broad overview to a more focused explanation.

Common error

While "to make it specific" is grammatically correct, overuse in casual conversation can sound stilted. In informal settings, consider using simpler alternatives like "to be clear" or "in detail" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to make it specific" primarily functions as an infinitive phrase that serves as an adverbial modifier. Ludwig confirms this is grammatically correct, with numerous examples across varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to make it specific" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that functions to introduce detailed clarification. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's versatile and appears across various contexts, from news articles to scientific papers. While it's acceptable to use in both formal and informal communication, consider alternatives like "to be more precise" or "to add more detail" in more casual settings to maintain a natural conversational tone. When clarity and actionable insights are paramount, using "to make it specific" effectively signals your intention to provide the necessary details for enhanced understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be more precise

This alternative focuses on enhancing accuracy and clarity.

to add more detail

This alternative emphasizes the inclusion of supplementary information.

to clarify the point

This option aims to remove ambiguity and ensure understanding.

to define it further

This focuses on providing a clearer definition or explanation.

to provide context

This emphasizes giving background information to ensure comprehension.

to narrow it down

This option is about reducing the scope and focusing on particulars.

to offer specifics

This highlights the act of presenting particular details.

to give examples

This alternative focuses on using instances for illustration.

to elaborate further

This aims to expand on the current information with greater detail.

to be more explicit

This alternative stresses the importance of clear and direct communication.

FAQs

How can I use "to make it specific" in a sentence?

You can use "to make it specific" to introduce a more detailed explanation or instruction. For example, "I could give you general advice, but "to make it specific", here are three actionable steps."

What are some alternatives to "to make it specific"?

Alternatives include phrases like "to be more precise", "to add more detail", or "to clarify the point", depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to "make it specific"?

No, not always. Sometimes a general overview is sufficient. However, when clarity and actionable steps are needed, providing specific details is crucial. If your audience needs clear and concise instructions or your statement requires further clarification to avoid ambiguity, "to make it specific" is the right approach.

What's the difference between "to make it specific" and "to be specific"?

"To make it specific" often introduces the act of adding detail, whereas "to be specific" simply indicates that what follows will be detailed. "I'll elaborate, "to make it specific"" signals that you will now provide more concrete information, while "To be specific, the deadline is July 20th" immediately presents a precise detail.