specifically
adverb
spe·cif·i·cal·ly
spi-ˈsi-fi-k(ə-)lē 
1
: in a specific manner : in a definite and exact way : with precision
instructed them specifically on how to proceed
the people specifically named in the report
The reasons for the change were not specifically mentioned.
I specifically told her not to bother you.
Knead the bread dough for several minutes, or, more specifically, until it forms a smooth ball.
2
—used to indicate the exact identity, purpose, or use of something
The show is aimed specifically at a female audience.
Specifically, the stores are lowering the height of store shelving, changing out signs, repainting some areas and … putting products next to each other that customers typically buy together.—
Jill Rick
Jill Rick
Examples of specifically in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The gadget is a good pick for cord-cutters and specifically for people with 1080p TVs.
—Louryn Strampe, WIRED, 23 Nov. 2023
Additionally, employers should consider implementing policies that specifically support working mothers, such as extended maternity leave, breastfeeding breaks, and facilities, or support for childcare.
—Gleb Tsipursky, Fortune, 22 Nov. 2023
Police officials have already undertaken new efforts of their own, including holding hiring expos aimed specifically at women.
—San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Nov. 2023
That’s why Lego designs Duplo sets with larger bricks specifically designed for little hands to build more easily and safely.
—Chaunie Brusie, Rn, Bsn, Parents, 22 Nov. 2023
It was inspired by chamber music — a piece for a string quartet by Maurice Ravel, specifically — to which the composers added a clarinet section reminiscent of Tchaikovsky, then layered in electric guitar and rock drums.
—Ken Armstrong, ProPublica, 22 Nov. 2023
But aid to Israel should not be conditioned on Israel’s behavior in the West Bank or human-rights concerns specifically?
—Isaac Chotiner, The New Yorker, 22 Nov. 2023
Federal prosecutors specifically charged Binance with conspiring to run an unlicensed money transmitting business, violating federal bank secrecy laws and violating federal sanctions laws.
—Glenn Thrush, New York Times, 21 Nov. 2023
Hostages were not specifically mentioned in the explanation of the pauses announced Thursday.
—Peter Alexander, NBC News, 10 Nov. 2023
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Louryn Strampe, WIRED, 23 Nov. 2023
Additionally, employers should consider implementing policies that specifically support working mothers, such as extended maternity leave, breastfeeding breaks, and facilities, or support for childcare.
—Gleb Tsipursky, Fortune, 22 Nov. 2023
Police officials have already undertaken new efforts of their own, including holding hiring expos aimed specifically at women.
—San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Nov. 2023
That’s why Lego designs Duplo sets with larger bricks specifically designed for little hands to build more easily and safely.
—Chaunie Brusie, Rn, Bsn, Parents, 22 Nov. 2023
It was inspired by chamber music — a piece for a string quartet by Maurice Ravel, specifically — to which the composers added a clarinet section reminiscent of Tchaikovsky, then layered in electric guitar and rock drums.
—Ken Armstrong, ProPublica, 22 Nov. 2023
But aid to Israel should not be conditioned on Israel’s behavior in the West Bank or human-rights concerns specifically?
—Isaac Chotiner, The New Yorker, 22 Nov. 2023
Federal prosecutors specifically charged Binance with conspiring to run an unlicensed money transmitting business, violating federal bank secrecy laws and violating federal sanctions laws.
—Glenn Thrush, New York Times, 21 Nov. 2023
Hostages were not specifically mentioned in the explanation of the pauses announced Thursday.
—Peter Alexander, NBC News, 10 Nov. 2023
See More
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'specifically.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Dictionary Entries Near specifically
Cite this Entry
“Specifically.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/specifically. Accessed 1 Dec. 2023.
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More from Merriam-Webster on specifically
Britannica English: Translation of specifically for Arabic Speakers
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