English usage and grammar

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A community to discuss and ask questions about English usage and grammar.

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Cambridge English Dictionary
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Difference among "specific", "particular", "certain", and similar words? (mander.xyz)

submitted 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago) by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

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Sometimes it's necessary to make clear that an item is singled out for some reason, for instance if it's been specially chosen. I often use the words specific and particular for that. Example:

"She is going to buy a specific book"

Omitting specific, the sentence could otherwise suggest that she just wants to buy any book; she'll decide which after browsing some at the book store.

I was wondering if there are any differences that I should be aware about among specific, particular, certain, and similar words in this context.

Giving your opinion about their usage is OK, but I'd also like to have some references if possible.

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