very specifically

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "very specifically" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to emphasize that something is detailed or precise in a particular context. Example: "The instructions were very specifically outlined to avoid any confusion during the process."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The show is very specifically about hipsters but it doesn't feel off-puttingly specific.

The Guardian

Very specifically he did.

Harvard Business Review

And I traded very specifically.

The Guardian - Film

He was answering the question very specifically.

The New York Times

So let me do that very specifically.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

He was up! CHRIS -- Very specifically addressing lines of dialogue.

The New York Times

Perhaps it is very specifically Berlusconi's Italy we're seeing.

The Guardian - Arts

We had to pick and choose things very specifically".

Independent

"It accompanies very specifically what Wotan sings about".

The New York Times

Using vibrant excerpts from stage and film, the documentary analyzes how they did that, very specifically.

The New York Times

This attractive version of the novel is set very specifically in a bitterly divided 1938 Yorkshire.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you need to clarify and reduce ambiguity, consider using “very specifically” to underscore the exact details, intentions, or limitations of a statement or action.

Common error

Avoid using "very specifically" in casual conversations or informal writing where a simpler adverb like "really" or "definitely" would suffice. Overusing it can make your language sound overly formal or stiff.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very specifically" primarily functions as an adverbial modifier, intensifying the precision or detail of an action or description. It highlights that something is done or stated with particular attention to detail. Ludwig's examples show its usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Academia

12%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "very specifically" is an adverbial phrase used to emphasize the detail and intentionality behind a statement or action. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in news media and academic contexts. While it conveys precision, it's crucial to avoid overuse in casual settings where simpler adverbs may suffice. When aiming for clarity and emphasis, "very specifically" is a valuable tool, but consider context to maintain an appropriate tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with precision

Highlights accuracy and exactness, often in technical contexts.

explicitly

Similar to 'expressly' but can refer to avoiding ambiguity in communication.

exactly

Stresses accuracy and without tolerance for deviation.

in great detail

Focuses on the extent of information provided rather than the intention behind it.

expressly

Suggests something is clearly and directly stated, often in legal or formal settings.

particularly

Emphasizes a certain aspect or item over others.

clearly

Focuses on the ease of understanding and without any obfuscation.

definitely

Highlights certainty and without vagueness.

in detail

Less emphatic and intense compared to "very specifically".

in a detailed manner

More verbose and formal compared to "very specifically".

FAQs

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

Use "very specifically" to emphasize that something is intentional, detailed, or precise. For example, "The instructions were "very specifically" outlined to avoid any confusion." or “I was "very specifically" told not to talk about it”.

What can I say instead of "very specifically"?

You can use alternatives like "in detail", "with precision", or "explicitly" depending on the context. Each alternative offers a slightly different nuance in emphasizing detail or intention.

Which is correct, "specifically" or "very specifically"?

Both "specifically" and ""very specifically"" are correct, but ""very specifically"" adds extra emphasis. Choose the one that best fits the level of emphasis you want to convey in your writing.

Is "very specifically" formal or informal?

"Very specifically" tends to be more formal than alternatives like "really" or "definitely", but less formal than "expressly". The context should guide your choice.