specify
SPEHS-ih-feye
Specify (verb) means to state something precisely or in detail. Example: “The contract does not specify when the work must be finished.”
verb
1
To state something precisely or in detail.
"The contract does not specify when the work must be finished."
"The instructions specify that the screws must be tightened by hand."
"Please specify your size when ordering."
How to use specify
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo spell out exactly what you mean rather than leaving it vague.
Common pairings
specify a date
unless otherwise specified
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- specifies
- Past tense
- specified
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The contract does not _____ when the work must be finished.
Etymology
From Old French specifier, ultimately from Latin specificus, "specific."
Synonyms
View more →
explicitize
disambiguate
call
clarify
call out
clear up
get something straight
name
narrow down
nominate
particularize
singularize
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for specify
See all rhymes for specify →Frequently asked questions
What does “specify” mean?
The word “specify” means to state something precisely or in detail. In plain terms, to spell out exactly what you mean rather than leaving it vague.
How do you pronounce “specify”?
“Specify” is pronounced SPEHS-ih-feye (/ˈspɛs.əˌfaɪ/ in IPA).
How do you use “specify” in a sentence?
Here is “specify” used in a sentence: “The instructions specify that the screws must be tightened by hand.”
What is another word for “specify”?
Words with a similar meaning to “specify” include explicitize, disambiguate, call, clarify, call out and clear up.
What is the opposite of “specify”?
The opposite of “specify” — its antonyms — is generalize.
What part of speech is “specify”?
“Specify” is a verb.
Where does the word “specify” come from?
The word “specify” comes from Latin. From Old French specifier, ultimately from Latin specificus, "specific.".
Is “specify” a common word?
“Specify” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between specify and describe?
Specify means to state something precisely and in detail, often pinning down exact requirements or details, while describe means to give a general account of what something is like. You specify the exact dimensions needed, but you describe what a finished product looks like.
When should you use specify instead of mention?
Use specify when precision matters and details must be clearly stated, such as specifying a deadline or a required format, whereas mention is more casual and can refer to bringing something up without full detail. Specify implies exactness that mention does not.
Is specify a formal word?
Specify is a fairly neutral, commonly used verb that fits both formal and everyday writing, though it appears especially often in instructions, contracts, and technical documentation where precision is required.
