The phrase "be specific" is spelled /bi spəˈsɪfɪk/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "be" is pronounced with a short "e" sound, while the second syllable "spe" is pronounced with a long "e" sound. The third syllable "cif" is pronounced with a short "i" sound and the final syllable "ic" is pronounced with a long "i" sound. This phrase is used to encourage people to provide detailed and precise information about a particular topic.
"Be specific" is a phrase that encourages individuals to provide precise and detailed information or instructions in order to avoid ambiguity or misunderstanding. It emphasizes the importance of clarity and precision in communication. When someone asks another person to "be specific," they are urging them to provide more specific details, explanations, or examples to answer a question or give directions.
Being specific involves providing explicit and concrete information instead of giving vague or general statements. It requires individuals to be clear, concise, and direct in expressing their thoughts or intentions. By being specific, individuals can ensure that their message is effectively understood, preventing misinterpretation or confusion.
In practical terms, being specific involves using definite and descriptive language, avoiding ambiguous terms or generalizations, and including relevant details. It helps to focus on the who, what, when, where, why, and how of a particular topic, task, or request. By being specific, individuals can facilitate better comprehension, accurate decision-making, and more efficient problem-solving.
To summarize, the phrase "be specific" represents an instruction to provide precise, detailed, and unambiguous information in communication. It highlights the significance of clarity and accuracy in expressing thoughts, answering questions, or giving instructions. Being specific is a crucial communication skill that enhances understanding and minimizes the potential for misunderstandings or errors.
The word specific originated from the Latin term specificus, which is a combination of the Latin words species, meaning kind or sort, and facere, meaning to make or to do. Over time, specificus evolved into specifik in Old French and eventually specific in Middle English. The phrase be specific is simply a combination of the adjective specific and the imperative form of the verb to be.