Specific Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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specific
[spɪˈsɪfɪk ]
Definitions
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.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| specific |
Use when you need to refer to something clearly defined or identified. It often suggests clarity and detail.
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| particular |
Best used when emphasizing one among many, often with a sense of exclusivity or detail. It may also imply a sense of fussiness.
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| special |
Ideal for conveying a sense of uniqueness or importance, often with positive connotations. It implies something is better or different in a good way.
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| distinct |
Applicable when referring to something that is clearly different or unique from others. It emphasizes individuality.
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| precise |
Suitable for situations demanding accuracy and exactness. It emphasizes correctness and meticulous detail.
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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.
not general
Relating to or connected with a particular thing. Detailed and exact. Clearly defined or identified.
Synonyms
detailed, explicit, particular, precise.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| specific |
Utilize this when you want to point out a distinct or particular item, aspect, or detail.
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| particular |
Applied when you want to emphasize a specific item or detail out of a broad category.
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| precise |
Appropriate when the focus is on exactness and accuracy, often used in scientific or technical contexts.
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| detailed |
Used when describing something with many small or elaborate parts or features.
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| explicit |
Best used when expressing something clearly and directly, leaving no room for confusion or questions. It can have a slightly negative connotation if used to describe something graphic or inappropriate.
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Examples of usage
- I need more specific information about the project.
- The article provides a specific analysis of the current economic situation.
technical term
A precise detail or characteristic. A particular detail or item.
Synonyms
aspect, detail, element, particular.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| specific |
When you want to refer to something clearly defined or identified.
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| detail |
When you refer to a small part of something larger, often emphasizing thoroughness.
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| particular |
Used when you want to emphasize a specific point or individual item among many.
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| element |
When referring to one part of something that is integral to the whole.
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| aspect |
When you are talking about a particular part or feature of something.
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Examples of usage
- The document outlines the specifics of the agreement.
- Let's discuss the specifics of the plan in more detail.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In biology, 'specific' often refers to processes or traits unique to certain organisms, such as a specific enzyme or gene.
- Chemistry uses the term to describe specific reactions that occur under particular conditions.
- Specific gravity is a crucial concept that compares the density of a substance to the density of water, providing clarity in material identification.
Education
- Setting specific learning objectives helps students focus and achieve clearer goals.
- In teaching methodologies, specific feedback can guide learners more effectively compared to general comments.
- Specificity in questions often leads to more detailed and informative answers, facilitating deeper understanding.
Marketing
- In advertising, using specific details about a product can increase consumer interest and trust.
- Targeted marketing strategies are built on understanding specific segments of the population rather than a broad audience.
- Specific calls to action in campaigns encourage more precise consumer responses, enhancing engagement.
Psychology
- In cognitive psychology, specific goals have been shown to enhance motivation and improve performance.
- Specific phobias refer to intense fears about particular objects or situations, distinct from generalized anxiety disorders.
- The specificity principle in learning suggests that skills practiced in a certain context are best applied in that same context.
Origin of 'specific'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'specificus', meaning 'particular' or 'of a species'.
- It entered the English language in the 14th century, originally describing something belonging to a particular species.
- Throughout history, the term has evolved to encompass detailed and clear characteristics in various contexts.
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.