Spec: meaning, definitions and examples

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spec

 

[ spek ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

computer programming

A specification, or spec, is a document that describes in detail how a system should be built. It outlines the requirements, functionalities, and constraints of the system.

Synonyms

blueprint, description, outline.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
spec

Used in technical or professional settings, 'spec' is short for 'specification'. It provides detailed requirements or standards for a product or project.

  • The software engineers reviewed the spec before starting the development.
  • Can you send me the spec for the new feature?
blueprint

Commonly used in construction and architecture, a 'blueprint' shows detailed plans or designs, often in a visual format. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a thorough plan or strategy.

  • The architect showed us the blueprint for the new building.
  • The marketing team laid out a blueprint for the upcoming campaign.
outline

An 'outline' gives a general, usually more summarized view or plan of something. Used in both written and verbal forms, it's often a preliminary step before a full description or detailed plan.

  • The professor provided an outline for the upcoming thesis.
  • We need an outline of the report before diving into specifics.
description

A 'description' provides a detailed account or explanation of something. It's a general term and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

  • The job description was very clear about the responsibilities.
  • Can you give me a description of what happened?

Examples of usage

  • The software development team is working on the spec for the new project.
  • The spec for the website includes a user-friendly interface and fast loading times.
Context #2 | Noun

general

A spec can also refer to a particular characteristic or quality of something.

Synonyms

attribute, detail, feature.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
spec

Appears to be a duplicate entry. Refer to the first definition of 'spec' for usage.

feature

Typically used to describe a prominent or important aspect of something, often in marketing or product descriptions.

  • The main feature of this software is its user-friendly interface.
  • This car model includes features like heated seats and a sunroof.
attribute

Often used in more formal or academic settings to describe a characteristic or quality of someone or something.

  • One of her most remarkable attributes is her dedication to her work.
  • In the database, each entry has several attributes such as name, age, and occupation.
detail

Commonly used in every day conversations to refer to a small part of something larger, often requiring careful attention.

  • Please provide more details about the project.
  • The artist paid great attention to every detail in his painting.

Examples of usage

  • This car has some impressive specs in terms of speed and performance.
  • The laptop's spec includes a high-resolution display and a fast processor.

Translations

Translations of the word "spec" in other languages:

🇵🇹 especificação

🇮🇳 विनिर्देश

🇩🇪 Spezifikation

🇮🇩 spesifikasi

🇺🇦 специфікація

🇵🇱 specyfikacja

🇯🇵 仕様

🇫🇷 spécification

🇪🇸 especificación

🇹🇷 spesifikasyon

🇰🇷 명세

🇸🇦 مواصفة

🇨🇿 specifikace

🇸🇰 špecifikácia

🇨🇳 规格

🇸🇮 specifikacija

🇮🇸 tækniforskrift

🇰🇿 техникалық сипаттама

🇬🇪 სპეციფიკაცია

🇦🇿 spesifikasiya

🇲🇽 especificación

Etymology

The term 'spec' originated in the early 20th century as an abbreviation of 'specification,' which has been used in engineering and technical fields to define requirements and standards. Over time, it has become widely adopted in various industries to refer to detailed descriptions or characteristics of products or systems.

See also: specific, specify, specimen, specs.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,942, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.