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

Synonyms of specifically

• especially
• particularly
• notably
• specially

Examples of specifically in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Archroma presented FiberColors, a range of dyes that are synthesized with a minimum of 50 percent wool waste, specifically fleeces that sheep farmers would otherwise pay to dispose of. —Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 21 Apr. 2026

Halliburton specifically highlighted major growth prospects in South America—in Argentina, Brazil, Suriname, and Guyana—as well as in Africa, including Namibia and Nigeria. —Jordan Blum, Fortune, 21 Apr. 2026

The memoiristic project reaches a kind of culmination in Blue Heron, which is not a documentary — but is still firmly rooted in Romvari’s own past, and specifically the reverberations of her troubled eldest brother’s sudden death. —David Canfield, HollywoodReporter, 21 Apr. 2026

Other flags have appeared from time to time, and Ritter noted the rules do not specifically prohibit them. —Mark Pazniokas, Hartford Courant, 21 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for specifically

• prolifically
• terrifically