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 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 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

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 1 Dec. 2023.

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