Specificity: meaning, definitions and examples

Employ 'specificity' when talking about clear and detailed information or features that are unique and distinct. This is often used in scientific, medical, or technical contexts.

• The specificity of the test ensures that it detects the exact virus
• The coach emphasized the specificity of each player's role on the team

Employ 'precision' when you need to express the quality of being exact and accurate, often in relation to detailed work, measurements, or calculations. This term is strongly associated with technical and scientific fields.

• The surgeon's precision was critical during the operation
• The precision of the clock ensures that it keeps perfect time

Employ 'exactness' when referring to the quality of being very accurate or precise in terms of details or measurements.

• The exactness of the measurements was crucial for the building's stability
• He admired the exactness in her calculations

Employ 'particularity' when focusing on special or unusual characteristics that make something distinct. This word often has a nuance of a picky or fussy approach, and it may carry a slight negative connotation in some contexts.

• Her particularity about the arrangement of the flowers was evident
• The particularity of his tastes made him difficult to please

Use when needing to highlight the precision and exactness of details.

• The specificity of the scientific study ensures reliable results
• She appreciated the specificity in the instructions

Best when emphasizing the clearness and understandability of information.

• His speech was full of clarity, making it easy for everyone to understand
• The clarity of the water in the lake was remarkable

Appropriate for situations requiring direct, clear, and unambiguous communication, often with strong emphasis.

• The teacher's explicitness about the rules left no room for misunderstanding
• The contract's explicitness protects all parties involved

Used when talking about elements, facts, or features that make up something more complete.

• The artist paid great attention to every detail of the painting
• The report is lacking in detail and needs more information

Use this word when you want to talk about how detailed or precise something is. Often used in scientific or technical contexts.

• The specificity of the test ensures that only certain diseases are detected
• The instructions lacked specificity, making the task more difficult

This word is best used when discussing how something or someone changes in response to their environment. Common in biological, environmental, or even social contexts.

• The adaptation of the species to the cold climate is fascinating
• Her quick adaptation to the new job was impressive

This word is perfect when talking about focusing on a particular area of study or work. It implies a deep level of knowledge or skill in one specific area.

• His specialization in neurology makes him a sought-after expert
• The company's specialization in renewable energy sets it apart from competitors

Use this term to describe how choosy or picky someone or something is. Often found in academic, professional, or scientific discussions.

• The selectivity of the university makes it difficult to get accepted
• Their selectivity in choosing suppliers ensures the best quality