WordGarden.iospecifically
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /spəsˈɪfɪkli/
US
- /spəˈsɪfɪkli/
Meanings
Adverb
in a specific or exact way, not generally or vaguely
for a particular person, purpose, or case; expressly
Beyond the definition
When you want to show exactly what you mean, you use the word "specifically." It is like shining a light on one detail inside a bigger picture. If someone asks what kind of music you like, and you do not just say "music," but instead say, "Specifically, I enjoy 1970s progressive rock," you are narrowing it down. You can also use it to show that something applies only to one group or case: "This rule applies specifically to students under the age of eighteen." It is a word for clear, exact meaning.
Imagine you're an artist painting a landscape. You could broadly paint "trees," but if you want to capture the scene accurately, you would show each leaf, branch, and shade of green. That is what the word "specifically" does in language: it narrows your focus to exact details.
"Specifically" often means "in particular" or "to be exact." For example: "The doctor recommended that I avoid dairy products specifically because of my allergy." This is not a general suggestion. It points to the exact reason for the recommendation.
It can also limit the scope of something, showing that it is true only for a certain group, reason, or situation. "This offer is valid specifically for new customers" means it does not apply to people who have already bought from the company.
You will often see "specifically" used in instructions, formal writing, or any situation where clarity matters. It helps avoid confusion and makes the meaning more exact. Think of a detective carefully explaining exactly how a crime happened: every detail matters.
So, when you need to be exact, point to one detail, or limit the scope of something, "specifically" is a useful choice. It brings clarity and focus to what you say.
Examples
- 1
Identifying choice
I asked for a small bag, specifically the blue one by the door.
- 2
Intended audience
This workshop was created specifically for new managers.
- Patternspecifically for + group/purpose
for one particular group or purpose
- 3
Budget concern
She said she was worried about the budget, specifically about how much the repairs would cost.
- 4
Asking reason
Why did you choose that hotel specifically?
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Clear questions
If you have questions, ask specifically so I know what information you need.
- 6
Narrower detail
The report looks at air pollution in cities, more specifically in school areas near busy roads.
- Phrasemore specifically
used before giving a narrower, more exact detail
- 7
Missing detail
The ad didn't mention remote work specifically, so I emailed the company to check.
- Patternnot mention + thing specifically
not say it clearly or directly
See also
Similar
- particularly
- in particular
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- more specifically
- specifically designed for
- refer specifically to
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- specificallyadverb