Specify

Definition

Specify refers to identifying clearly and definitely.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈspɛsɪˌfaɪ/
• Respelling: SPEH-sih-fy

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈspɛsɪˌfaɪ/
• Respelling: SPEH-sih-fy

Etymology

The term "specify" is derived from the Latin word "specificare", which means "to mention or set forth in detail". It can be broken down into "speci-" (a certain kind) and "-fy" (make or produce).

Derivatives

• Specification: A detailed description of the design and materials used to make something.
• Specifier: A person who specifies something.
• Specified: Clearly stated or identified.
• Specifically: For a particular reason, purpose, etc.
• Unspecified: Not stated clearly or exactly.

Synonyms

• Designate
• Detail
• State

Antonyms

• Generalize
• Vague
• Omit

Usage

Example: "The client will specify the requirements for the project next week."

Related Terms

• Delineate: To describe or portray (something) precisely.
• Prescribe: Advise and authorize the use of (a medicine or treatment) for someone.
• Enumerate: Mention (a number of things) one by one.

Detailed Definition

Verb

• To state or describe in detail or specifically:
• Example: "She did not specify the color she wanted."

• To include as an item in a specification:
• Example: "The engineer specified stainless steel for the exterior cladding."

• To name or state explicitly; identify distinctly:
• Example: "He specified the main reasons for his departure."