Synonyms of specific

specific 1 of 2

adjective

spi-ˈsi-fik 

1

as in special

of a particular or exact sort

we need a specific type of pen to sign the diplomas

Synonyms & Similar Words

• special
• precise
• distinct
• sole
• concrete
• express
• specialized
• peculiar
• set
• single
• only
• individual
• distinctive
• especial
• unique
• limited
• separate
• restricted
• exclusive
• solitary
• specified
• lone
• differentiated
• given

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• nonspecific
• general
• generic
• generalized
• universal
• nonexclusive

2

as in explicit

so clearly expressed as to leave no doubt about the meaning

specific instructions regarding the interrogation of prisoners

Synonyms & Similar Words

• explicit
• definite
• express
• definitive
• unmistakable
• comprehensive
• unambiguous
• literal
• unequivocal
• complete
• specified
• precise
• clear-cut
• simple
• full
• univocal
• certain
• comprehensible
• stated
• clear
• distinct
• categorical
• exact
• exhaustive
• avowed
• direct
• sure
• understandable
• well-defined
• declared
• lucid
• intelligible
• straightforward
• plain

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• implicit
• inferred
• implied
• obscure
• unclear
• dark
• ambiguous
• cryptic
• enigmatic
• incorrect
• vague
• inaccurate
• imprecise
• circuitous
• inexact
• indefinite
• incomprehensible
• equivocal
• unintelligible
• unspecific
• inexplicit

specific

2 of 2

noun

1

as in fact

a single piece of information

although the speech was long on rhetoric and platitudinous generalities, it lacked specifics

Synonyms & Similar Words

• fact
• detail
• particular
• article
• item
• element
• particularity
• point
• part
• datum
• information
• factor
• component
• nicety
• aspect
• circumstance
• ingredient
• evidence
• member
• constituent
• knowledge
• facet
• database
• exhibit

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• error
• myth
• misconception
• fallacy
• falsehood
• inaccuracy
• misstatement

2

as in characteristic

something that sets apart an individual from others of the same kind

the two submissions differ only in certain specifics

Synonyms & Similar Words

• characteristic
• feature
• quality
• attribute
• trait
• attribution
• criterion
• property
• hallmark
• mark
• particularity
• marker
• peculiarity
• touch
• character
• indication
• affection
• fingerprint
• stamp
• point
• diagnostic
• note
• symbol
• differentia
• sign
• token
• emblem
• merit
• virtue
• badge
• excellence
• uniqueness
• grace
• charm
• individuality
• idiosyncrasy
• quirk
• eccentricity
• singularity
• oddity

3

as in drug

a substance or preparation used to treat disease

quinine is a specific for malaria

Synonyms & Similar Words

• drug
• remedy
• medication
• medicine
• cure
• medicinal
• prescription
• physic
• pharmaceutical
• medicament
• antibiotic
• pill
• potion
• botanical
• prescription drug
• tonic
• wonder drug
• panacea
• injection
• patent medicine
• miracle drug
• serum
• nostrum
• tablet
• syrup
• cap
• cure-all
• lotion
• capsule
• ointment
• salve
• tincture
• antiseptic
• cordial
• liniment
• cathartic
• purgative
• shot
• poultice
• embrocation

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective specific differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of specific are especial, individual, particular, and special. While all these words mean "of or relating to one thing or class," specific implies a quality or character distinguishing a kind or a species.

children with specific nutritional needs

Where would especial be a reasonable alternative to specific?

The words especial and specific can be used in similar contexts, but especial may add implications of preeminence or preference.

a matter of especial importance

When can individual be used instead of specific?

While the synonyms individual and specific are close in meaning, individual implies unequivocal reference to one of a class or group.

valued each individual opinion

When could particular be used to replace specific?

The synonyms particular and specific are sometimes interchangeable, but particular stresses the distinctness of something as an individual.

a ballet step of particular difficulty

When is it sensible to use special instead of specific?

In some situations, the words special and specific are roughly equivalent. However, special stresses having a quality, character, identity, or use of its own.

special ingredients

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of specific

Adjective

Look up the dates for your child’s grade-specific showcases, orchestra concerts, or art nights. — Lauren Brown West-Rosenthal, Parents, 16 Aug. 2026

Democratic socialist The specific label of democratic socialist is seen as positive by half the party — more by younger and more liberal Democrats. — Anthony Salvanto, CBS News, 16 Aug. 2026

Noun

In 2021, 93% of notices sent out included specifics of the incident. — Sarah Agostino, CNBC, 14 Aug. 2026

The specifics would depend upon the quality of data from the original standalone vaccines and how it’s viewed by FDA regulators. — Matthew Perrone, Chicago Tribune, 13 Aug. 2026