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
• clear
• stated
• distinct
• categorical
• exact
• exhaustive
• direct
• avowed
• sure
• categoric
• understandable
• well-defined
• lucid
• declared
• intelligible
• straightforward
• plain

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

specific

2 of 2

noun

1

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
• serum
• miracle drug
• tablet
• nostrum
• syrup
• cap
• cure-all
• lotion
• capsule
• ointment
• salve
• tincture
• antiseptic
• cordial
• liniment
• cathartic
• purgative
• shot
• sirup
• poultice
• embrocation

2

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

3

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

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

Illinois voters do not register with a specific party, so the new pope's political affiliation in the United States has not been formally documented. —Rachel Raposas, People.com, 9 May 2025

Molds belong to the kingdom of Fungi and is a specific form of fungi that grow filament structures known as hyphae. —Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes.com, 27 Apr. 2025

Noun

Republicans also said the cuts are geared toward preventing Medicaid abuse, though the specifics remain unclear. —Samantha Brown, NBC news, 6 May 2025

During an April 21 hearing in federal court, Judge Federico A. Moreno pushed for more details as to the specifics of the allegations against Méndez. —Tess Riski, Miami Herald, 6 May 2025