specifically
Americanadverb
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in a definite or precise manner.
The suspect was not specifically named in the report. More specifically, you will be responsible for half the total cost.
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with an exact use or purpose in mind.
The manual is written specifically for nonexperts.
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with reference to qualities that are peculiar or proper to someone or something.
Our classes are specifically different from other yoga programs.
Etymology
Origin of specifically
First recorded in 1620–25; specific ( def. ) + -ly ( def. )
Explanation
Specifically means particularly, or regarding one option out of several. You specifically requested that your birthday cake be chocolate with raspberry icing, so you were quite disappointed with the vanilla cake you were served instead. The adverb specifically comes from the Latin specificus, and shares a root with special and species. If you specifically choose something, you have made a special choice about it. If you single something out specifically, it's particularly significant. A documentary about this history of childhood might have been a real eye-opener, specifically the part about how kids used to go to work at 12 or younger.
Vocabulary lists containing specifically
"Diary of a Wimpy Kid" by Jeff Kinney
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Because of Winn-Dixie
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The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl
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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 sectors are currently riddled with bottleneck tasks; specifically, thinly staffed areas where expert prediction is scarce.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026
Bernstein analyst Mark Newman believes quantum is “set to become the next important step in computing,” specifically through a hybrid architecture composed of CPUs, GPUs, and quantum processors.
From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026
The lawsuit specifically said Kratter’s profile data shows that listener activity on the platform, including saves and playlist additions, exceeded counted streams.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 9, 2026
Landing at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in early June felt like arriving into a scene from a different time, specifically the COVID-19 pandemic era.
From Slate • Jun. 9, 2026
A polite way of putting it, Ekon thought, recalling Anatsou specifically.
From "Beasts of Prey" by Ayana Gray
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
