very specific

USAGE SUMMARY

'very specific' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use 'very specific' when describing something that is narrowly outlined or detailed. For example, "My teacher has given me very specific instructions on how to complete the assignment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"And very specific movements".

The New York Times

Very specific ones.

The New York Times

It was very specific.

The New York Times

Which was very specific.

The Guardian - Music

He's very specific.

The New York Times - Food

Nic is very specific.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I was very specific.

The Guardian - Business

"The content is very specific.

Independent

She's a very specific girl.

The New York Times

I had very specific ideas".

The New York Times - Arts

"It's very specific, very detailed.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing instructions, use "very specific" details to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "mix the ingredients", say "mix 200g of flour with 150ml of water".

Common error

Avoid using "very specific" when the context requires general guidelines. Over-specifying can restrict creativity and adaptability. Know when to trust your audience's understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very specific" primarily functions as an adjectival modifier, intensifying the adjective "specific". It emphasizes a high degree of detail, precision, or particularity. Ludwig examples confirm its use in clarifying instructions and requirements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

10%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

7%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "very specific" is a commonly used adjectival phrase that emphasizes a high degree of detail and precision. As Ludwig AI pointed out, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in News & Media. To enhance your writing, consider using related phrases like "highly detailed" or "particularly precise" to add nuance. Remember to avoid over-specification and always consider your audience's understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highly detailed

Emphasizes the level of detail involved, shifting focus from the broad concept of specificity to the intricate details.

particularly precise

Highlights the exactness and accuracy of the information, instead of its defined nature.

uniquely tailored

Implies a custom fit or design, suggesting the specificity is intentional and personalized.

clearly defined

Focuses on the clarity and unambiguity of the specification, emphasizing the absence of vagueness.

distinctly outlined

Stresses that something is set apart or demarcated sharply.

explicitly stated

Highlights the direct and unambiguous expression of information, moving from inherent quality to communicated clarity.

narrowly defined

Focuses on the limited scope or range of the specification, suggesting a restriction or constraint.

exactly specified

Indicates a high degree of precision in the details, emphasizing a precise articulation.

unambiguously clear

Emphasizes the lack of ambiguity and the ease of understanding, shifting focus from the inherent quality to its perception.

minutely detailed

Emphasizes the extremely fine level of detail, suggesting a thorough examination or description.

FAQs

How can I use "very specific" in a sentence?

You can use "very specific" to describe something that is detailed and precise. For example, "The instructions were "very specific", leaving no room for error."

What are some alternatives to "very specific"?

Alternatives include "highly detailed", "particularly precise", or "clearly defined", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "very specific"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize the detailed nature of something and ensure clarity. For instance, "The job requirements are "very specific", so read them carefully."

What is the difference between "very specific" and "somewhat specific"?

"Very specific" indicates a high level of detail and precision, while "somewhat specific" suggests a moderate or partial level of detail. If something is only somewhat detailed, consider using phrases like "relatively detailed" or "fairly precise" instead.