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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.

Delta didn’t specify which aircraft would be equipped with the Leo service, though Bastian said the Boeing 737 MAX-10 jets that Delta has on order could be one possibility when they start arriving.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 31, 2026

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

From BBC • Mar. 30, 2026

Intuitive Surgical also reported being the target of a phishing incident, although it didn’t specify who was behind the attempt.

From Barron's • Mar. 29, 2026

Her statement did not specify support of the San Vicente-Fairfax route.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026

It would be only natural to suppose that this order should apply not only to the laws, but also to the conditions at the boundary of space-time that specify the initial state of the universe.

From "A Brief History of Time: And Other Essays" by Stephen Hawking

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