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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
MinIO’s AIStor Launched nearly a year ago, AIStor is MinIO's commercial object storage platform engineered specifically to address the unique performance, scalability, and operational challenges that emerge when enterprises deploy AI at massive scale. Steve McDowell, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2025 More Rich Storry/Getty Images Vrabel specifically pointed out a false start penalty on rookie left tackle Will Campbell and a pair of penalties on K'Lavon Chaisson for lining up in the neutral zone as examples of penalties that didn't need to be called. Michael Hurley, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 Sep. 2025 Others suggested changes to state law, including one proposal to prohibit deductions unless a lease specifically allows them and another that would require companies and royalty owners to renegotiate their contracts every few decades. Jacob Orledge, ProPublica, 15 Sep. 2025 This sparked an idea to conduct personal research into how influencers and journalists structure partnerships for brand promotions, specifically within the football industry. Daniel Taylor, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for specifically

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of specifically was in 1646

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Specifically.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/specifically. Accessed 17 Sep. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!