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.

Sometimes disclaimers can work even if the asset owner didn’t specify an heir.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

The brief statement posted on X did not specify where the missiles originated.

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

The UN resolution does not specify an amount.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 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

That genes could be regulated—i.e., turned “on” and “off” by particular cues—deepened the understanding of how genes function in time and space to specify the unique features of distinct cells.

From "The Gene" by Siddhartha Mukherjee

specify

Example Sentences

Related Words