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.

These labels specify indications for which the patents on a branded drug have lapsed, but exclude indications for which patents are still in effect.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 4, 2026

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

From MarketWatch • May 22, 2026

Officials did not specify if the passenger was showing symptoms of the virus or when the person was last in DR Congo.

From BBC • May 21, 2026

He did not specify whether the sample came from the city itself, which fell into M23 hands in February 2025, or the rural areas surrounding the South Kivu provincial capital.

From Barron's • May 21, 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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