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specific

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

adjective

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Synonyms & Antonyms of specific

(Entry 1 of 2)

1 of a particular or exact sort

we need a specific type of pen to sign the diplomas

Synonyms for specific

Words Related to specific

limited,
restricted

given,
specified

Near Antonyms for specific

Antonyms for specific

nonspecific

2 so clearly expressed as to leave no doubt about the meaning

specific instructions regarding the interrogation of prisoners

Synonyms for specific

Words Related to specific

exact,
precise

Near Antonyms for specific

Antonyms for specific

specific

noun

Synonyms & Antonyms of specific (Entry 2 of 2)

1 a substance or preparation used to treat disease

quinine is a specific for malaria

Synonyms for specific

Words Related to specific

injection,
shot

2 a single piece of information

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

Synonyms for specific

Words Related to specific

article,
item

evidence,
exhibit

Near Antonyms for specific

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

the two submissions differ only in certain specifics

Synonyms for specific

Words Related to specific

charm,
grace

Frequently Asked Questions About specific

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