Specific: meaning, definitions and examples

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specific

 

[ spɪˈsɪfɪk ]

Adjective / Noun
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Adjective

in a particular case

Clearly defined or identified. Suitable for a particular person, place, or situation. Intended for or involving a particular individual or group.

Synonyms

distinct, particular, precise, special

Examples of usage

  • This rule is not specific to this case.
  • She requested a specific type of cake for her birthday.
  • The training program is tailored to meet the specific needs of each employee.
Context #2 | Adjective

not general

Relating to or connected with a particular thing. Detailed and exact. Clearly defined or identified.

Synonyms

detailed, explicit, particular, precise

Examples of usage

  • I need more specific information about the project.
  • The article provides a specific analysis of the current economic situation.
Context #3 | Noun

technical term

A precise detail or characteristic. A particular detail or item.

Synonyms

aspect, detail, element, particular

Examples of usage

  • The document outlines the specifics of the agreement.
  • Let's discuss the specifics of the plan in more detail.

Translations

Translations of the word "specific" in other languages:

🇵🇹 específico

🇮🇳 विशिष्ट

🇩🇪 spezifisch

🇮🇩 spesifik

🇺🇦 конкретний

🇵🇱 specyficzny

🇯🇵 特定の

🇫🇷 spécifique

🇪🇸 específico

🇹🇷 spesifik

🇰🇷 구체적인

🇸🇦 محدد

🇨🇿 specifický

🇸🇰 špecifický

🇨🇳 具体的

🇸🇮 specifičen

🇮🇸 sérstakur

🇰🇿 нақты

🇬🇪 სპეციფიკური

🇦🇿 spesifik

🇲🇽 específico

Word origin

The word 'specific' originated from the Latin word 'specificus', which means 'of a kind'. The term evolved in Middle English to refer to something clearly defined or identified. Over time, 'specific' has come to signify something detailed, precise, or particular. The concept of specificity is crucial in various fields, from science to language, where precise definitions and details are essential for accurate communication and understanding.

See also: spec, specify, specimen, specs.

Word Frequency Rank

With position #413, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.