具体来说
jùtǐ láishuō
To be specific · trad. 具體來說
具体来说 (jùtǐ láishuō) is used to introduce more specific details or elaborate on a previous general statement. It signals that the speaker is about to provide concrete information or examples.
What does 具体来说 (jùtǐ láishuō) mean?
具体来说 (jùtǐ láishuō) means “to be specific” in English. Word for word, it breaks down as “concretely speaking.”
When to use it
Neutral and commonly used in both formal and informal contexts when clarifying or elaborating. It's a useful phrase for transitioning from a general point to specific examples or explanations.
How to pronounce it
Sounds like “jyoo-TEE LAI-shwor.” The first syllable has a falling tone, the second a rising tone, and the third a level tone, with the last syllable often said lightly.
Other ways to say it
- 详细地说xiángxì de shuōin detail, to speak in detail
- 换句话说huànjùhuà shuōin other words
- 确切地说quèqiè de shuōprecisely speaking
Examples
我们需要改进服务。具体来说，我们应该缩短等待时间。
wǒmen xūyào gǎijìn fúwù. jùtǐ láishuō, wǒmen yīnggāi suōduǎn děngdài shíjiān.
We need to improve our service. Specifically, we should shorten waiting times.
他的计划很宏伟。具体来说，他想在三年内开设十家分店。
tā de jìhuà hěn hóngwěi. jùtǐ láishuō, tā xiǎng zài sānniánnèi kāishè shíjiā fēndiàn.
His plan is ambitious. To be specific, he wants to open ten branches within three years.
这项技术有很多优点。具体来说，它可以提高效率并降低成本。
zhè xiàng jìshù yǒu hěnduō yōudiǎn. jùtǐ láishuō, tā kěyǐ tígāo xiàolǜ bìng jiàngdī chéngběn.
This technology has many advantages. Specifically, it can improve efficiency and reduce costs.
Pro tip: Think of 具体来说 as a verbal cue that you are about to “zoom in” on a topic, moving from a broad statement to finer points.
Related phrases
我补充一点 · Let me add one point换句话说 · In other words总的来说 · Overall or in summary
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