specifically

adverb

spe·​cif·​i·​cal·​ly spi-ˈsi-fi-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce specifically (audio)
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

Examples of specifically in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web With that in mind, Bulgari has specifically designed every shape and texture of its new Octo Roma models to maximize the effects of black surfaces. Cait Bazemore, Robb Report, 8 Apr. 2024 Half of the salmon sold worldwide comes from fish farms (in an industry called aquaculture) where they are bred specifically for human consumption. Veronica Cristino, Vogue, 8 Apr. 2024 Michigan Science Center Special glasses specifically for viewing a solar eclipse are available at the Mi-Sci gift shop, 5020 John R. St. in Detroit's Midtown, said Mi-Sci staff astronomer Paulette Epstein. Detroit Free Press, 8 Apr. 2024 The best spot for viewing the eclipse today is expected to be northern New England, specifically northern portions of Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. USA TODAY, 8 Apr. 2024 Just 10 states, including California and New York, have limits on self-driving vehicles, while 20 specifically allow driverless operations. William Gavin, Quartz, 8 Apr. 2024 The dogs on the property were likely bred and trained specifically for use in fighting, according to the Humane Society. Zoe Sottile, CNN, 6 Apr. 2024 Ahead of the Dodgers’ home opener, the hotel was already hosting one or two tour groups in L.A. specifically to see Ohtani, said Risa Oyama, sales manager at the hotel. Samantha Masunaga, Los Angeles Times, 27 Mar. 2024 The similar claim, from Jefferson, simply said that elections in Wisconsin come down to a few votes per ward — not that Biden specifically won or lost those few votes everywhere. Journal Sentinel, 27 Mar. 2024

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of specifically was in 1646

Dictionary Entries Near specifically

Cite this Entry

“Specifically.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/specifically. Accessed 19 Apr. 2024.

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