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Definitions

specify

[spes-uh-fahy] / ˈspɛs əˌfaɪ /
VERB
designate; decide definitely
Synonyms
STRONGEST
cite define determine enumerate establish fix indicate lay out limit mention point out spell out stipulate
STRONG
blueprint condition detail finger individualize instance inventory itemize list make name particularize peg set settle slot specialize tag
WEAK
be specific button down come to the point draw a picture get down to brass tacks get to the point go into detail pin down precise put down put finger on show clearly specificate specificize tab tick off
Antonyms
STRONGEST
confuse destroy neglect unsettle
STRONG
discourage dissuade halt ignore
WEAK
generalize

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.

The state media didn’t specify how much the tolls would be.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

It has yet to specify when the new changes will take effect.

From BBC • Mar. 30, 2026

The airline did not specify which airports this applies to and if it would waive change fees and fare differences for all affected travelers.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 25, 2026

However, she did not specify whether she would run.

From Barron's • Mar. 24, 2026

As for food production’s more sinister by-product of infectious diseases, we cannot specify where within the Old World most major diseases of Old World origin arose.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.