specifically

adverb

spe·​cif·​i·​cal·​ly spi-ˈsi-fi-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce specifically (audio)
1
: in a specific manner : in a definite and exact way : with precision
instructed them specifically on how to proceed
the people specifically named in the report
The reasons for the change were not specifically mentioned.
I specifically told her not to bother you.
Knead the bread dough for several minutes, or, more specifically, until it forms a smooth ball.
2
used to indicate the exact identity, purpose, or use of something
The show is aimed specifically at a female audience.
Specifically, the stores are lowering the height of store shelving, changing out signs, repainting some areas and … putting products next to each other that customers typically buy together.Jill Rick

Examples of specifically in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Not surprisingly, many fans were enraged while others defended West, although rarely specifically about Thursday night’s format. Jem Aswad, Variety, 15 Mar. 2024 The Journal Sentinel asked HUD whether property owners would ever be expected to conduct welfare checks on tenants — specifically, if the landlord becomes aware of concerns about a tenant's health or safety. Journal Sentinel, 13 Mar. 2024 And that specifically meant doing right by Schneider. Etan Vlessing, The Hollywood Reporter, 13 Mar. 2024 Dear Miss Manners: My husband and I disagree on the appropriate protocol when attending a neighborhood social event not specifically described as a potluck. Jacobina Martin, Washington Post, 13 Mar. 2024 Travelers can, of course, go it alone by using Visit Napa Valley's super handy map, which specifically calls out some of the best spots to see, photograph, and sit among the blooms. Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 13 Mar. 2024 Lawyers representing Fox flagged the Philippines scandal in court filings Wednesday, specifically mentioning the charges against Bautista and the disqualification decision in Manila. Marshall Cohen, CNN, 12 Mar. 2024 Of the 44 schools, Iowa State was the only one whose questionnaire specifically asked athletes about offenses that required registration with law enforcement. USA TODAY, 12 Mar. 2024 But, the name that continued to pop up during conversations with my Korean mates (even my male friends who also dabble in creams, toners, and serums at night to fit into the Korean beauty culture), was L'Occitane — and specifically the Immortelle Overnight Reset Serum. Michelle Tchea, Travel + Leisure, 3 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'specifically.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of specifically was in 1646

Dictionary Entries Near specifically

Cite this Entry

“Specifically.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/specifically. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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