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.

It did not specify who was behind the attacks and noted that the ships do not belong to Azerbaijan.

From BBC • Jun. 5, 2026

Unlike typical tax documents, Blanche’s order doesn’t define key terms or specify which tax years, taxpayers and tax disputes are covered.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 30, 2026

Iranian forces did not specify their exact target, but Kuwait, which hosts US troops, said its air defences responded to incoming Iranian missiles and drones.

From Barron's • May 29, 2026

One of the tipoffs, says the FTC, is when they specify the method of payment.

From MarketWatch • May 22, 2026

“Okay, okay. Well, you can’t even call in that favor. The rules specify that no animals may drain the poison. Apparently, it can turn them into huge monsters that eat everything around them.”

From "Aru Shah and the End of Time" by Roshani Chokshi

Vocabulary lists containing specify

Tier 2 Words for the SBAC ELA Items

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STAAR English I: The Language of the Test 2

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STAAR English II: The Language of the Test 2

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