which specify that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "which specify that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to clauses or statements that provide specific details or conditions about a subject. Example: "The regulations include several provisions which specify that all employees must complete safety training before starting work."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Comparing the mean Ka/Ks ratios for CNL group, we observed that orthologous genes of CNL type NBS-encoding genes in B. rapa species experienced stronger pressure about negative selection than B. oleracea species which specify that B. oleracea species experienced stronger evolutionary constraints than B. rapa species in CNL type NBS-encoding orthologous genes.

BMC Genomics

Unlike some other pro-life groups, the S.B.A. List doesn't encourage candidates to support "personhood" laws, which specify that the right to life begins at conception.

The New Yorker

Staff at the hospital where she worked told El País that the protective suits they were given did not meet World Health Organisation (WHO) standards, which specify that suits must be impermeable and include breathing apparatus.

The Guardian

Needless to say, Hollywood has had plenty of experience grappling with the Federal Communication Commission's equal time regulations, which specify that candidates may request equal access to the public airwaves.

The New York Times

Such arrangements are likely to break WTO rules, which specify that subsidies should not exceed 10% of the total value of production.A group of developing countries led by India wants to amend the rules.

The Economist

But in a prepared statement, Mr. Martinez said that the agency's authority comes from vehicle and traffic laws, which specify that an applicant for a driver's license "shall furnish such proof of identity, age and fitness as may be required by the commissioner".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

New York's IFC Center is flouting the film's NC-17 rating, which specifies that children under the age of 17 should not be permitted entry.

The Guardian - Film

The bill, which specifies that abortion care should not be mentioned when discussing healthcare options for pregnant women, will now go before Governor Nathan Deal for his signature.

The Guardian

A year later, Pence supported a controversial part of George W Bush's program to fight Aids across the globe which specified that 33% of funds would be spent on abstinence and monogamy programs.

The Guardian

He had served only eight years of a life sentence handed down by a specially convened Scottish court in the Netherlands, which specified that he serve a minimum of 27 years.

The New York Times

A search on property listing site Rightmove shows only two one-bedroom flats available slightly under this rate, one of which specifies that potential occupants must earn a minimum of £23,850 a year.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "which specify that" to introduce clauses that provide essential details or conditions necessary for understanding a concept or process. Ensure that the 'which' refers clearly to a specific noun in the preceding clause.

Common error

Avoid using 'that' instead of 'which' when introducing nonrestrictive clauses (clauses that add extra information but are not essential to the sentence's meaning). 'Which' is generally preferred for these types of clauses, especially when using "which specify that".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "which specify that" functions as a relative clause, providing additional, non-essential information about a noun or concept mentioned earlier in the sentence. It introduces specific details or conditions related to that noun.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "which specify that" introduces nonrestrictive clauses offering extra information or detailing conditions tied to the subject. While grammatically sound, this construction appears infrequently in Ludwig's database. As indicated by Ludwig AI, the phrase maintains a neutral register suitable for various writing styles. For alternative expressions, consider phrases like "that delineate", "that stipulate", or "that detail" to enhance clarity and precision, as they offer similar function with subtle differences in nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that detail

Implies a thorough and comprehensive description.

that stipulate

Emphasizes a formal agreement or condition being set.

that set out

Implies a clear and organized presentation of requirements or conditions.

that define

Highlights the action of providing a clear and precise meaning.

that determine

Highlights the action of establishing something definitively.

that delineate

Focuses on outlining specific boundaries or characteristics.

that establish

Focuses on setting up or creating a firm foundation.

that prescribe

Suggests a rule or recommendation that must be followed.

that lay down

Suggests the formal setting of rules or guidelines.

that indicate

Focuses on pointing out or showing a particular fact or condition.

FAQs

How can I use "which specify that" in a sentence?

Use "which specify that" to add detail to a noun, indicating the specific conditions or details related to it. For example: "The guidelines, which specify that all submissions must be original, are available online".

What are some alternatives to "which specify that"?

You can use alternatives like "that delineate", "that stipulate", or "that detail" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "which specify that" and "that specify"?

"Which specify that" introduces a nonrestrictive clause, adding extra information. "That specify" introduces a restrictive clause, essential for defining the noun it modifies. Using "which" implies the information is additional, while "that" implies it's crucial for understanding which specific item is being discussed.

When is it appropriate to use "which specify that" in formal writing?

It's appropriate in formal writing when you need to elaborate on a previous statement or noun with specific requirements or conditions. Ensure the "which" clause is set off with commas to indicate its nonrestrictive nature.