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.

They don't specify, but they clearly imply that the emails hacked are those of Ferguson.

From BBC • May 20, 2026

Within the prompt, specify “restaurants,” “museums” or really anything you’re looking for.

From MarketWatch • May 19, 2026

The CDC didn’t identify the person or specify the nature of their work.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 18, 2026

Kaiser did not specify how ill those infected are, nor did they say specifically how the bacteria were detected.

From Los Angeles Times • May 18, 2026

It reads IN MEMORIAM, but it does not specify who it is for.

From "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern

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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