Synonyms

specifically

American

[spi-sif-ik-lee] / spɪˈsɪf ɪk li /

adverb

in a definite or precise manner.

The suspect was not specifically named in the report. More specifically, you will be responsible for half the total cost.
with an exact use or purpose in mind.

The manual is written specifically for nonexperts.
with reference to qualities that are peculiar or proper to someone or something.

Our classes are specifically different from other yoga programs.

Etymology

Origin of specifically

First recorded in 1620–25; specific ( def. ) + -ly ( def. )

Explanation

Specifically means particularly, or regarding one option out of several. You specifically requested that your birthday cake be chocolate with raspberry icing, so you were quite disappointed with the vanilla cake you were served instead. The adverb specifically comes from the Latin specificus, and shares a root with special and species. If you specifically choose something, you have made a special choice about it. If you single something out specifically, it's particularly significant. A documentary about this history of childhood might have been a real eye-opener, specifically the part about how kids used to go to work at 12 or younger.

Keep Reading on Vocabulary.com

Vocabulary lists containing specifically

"Diary of a Wimpy Kid" by Jeff Kinney

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Because of Winn-Dixie

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The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl

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Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Those who are specifically traveling domestically to save money should avoid World Cup cities, where lodging prices have been inflated due to anticipated demand.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 11, 2026

Olsen: I want to be sure to ask you about some of the other cast on the show, specifically Guz Khan.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 11, 2026

These sectors are currently riddled with bottleneck tasks; specifically, thinly staffed areas where expert prediction is scarce.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026

Fifa has introduced 11 measures specifically for the tournament.

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

He was told he was in luck, as the organization had a donor who specifically wanted money to go to feeding the poor in Haiti.

From "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder and Michael French

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023