Specification

Definition

Specification refers to the detailed description or assessment of requirements, dimensions, materials, etc., often provided in a list format.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌspɛsɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/
• Respelling: SPEH-suh-fih-KAY-shuhn (with "SPEH" as in "spectacle," "suh" as a schwa sound like the 'u' in "supply," "fih" as in "fit," "KAY" as in "kayak," and "shuhn" as in "cushion")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌspɛsɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/
• Respelling: SPEH-suh-fih-KAY-shuhn (similar to American English, with "SPEH" as in "spectacle," "suh" like the 'u' in "supply," "fih" as in "fit," "KAY" like in "kayak," and "shuhn" as in "cushion")

In both dialects, "specification" is pronounced with the primary stress on the third syllable, "KAY." The pronunciation is consistent across both American and British English, accurately reflecting the word's phonetic structure and emphasis.

Etymology

The term "specification" is derived from the Latin word "specificatio," which comes from the verb "specificare" (to mention specifically). The usage of "specification" in English to mean a detailed description dates back to the early 19th century.

Derivatives

• Specify
• Specified
• Specifying
• Specifier
• Specificity

Synonyms

• Description
• Detailing
• Delineation

Antonyms

• Generalization
• Vagueness
• Ambiguity

Usage

The term "specification" is typically used in technical, engineering, and manufacturing contexts to provide a detailed description of the requirements, standards, and materials necessary for a particular project or product.

• Example: "The contractor worked according to the specifications provided for the building project."

Related Terms

• Detail
• Description
• Requirement

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Detailed Description: An explicit or detailed description of how something should be done or constructed.
• Example: "The specification listed the materials required for the construction."

• Act of Specifying: The act of identifying something precisely or of stating a precise requirement.
• Example: "The specification of the requirements was crucial for the project's success."

• Technical Standard: A standard or protocol that defines the requirements a particular object or structure must meet.
• Example: "The engineering specification ensured the durability of the materials used."