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Definition of specificnext

specific

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noun

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

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.
Recent Examples of specific
Adjective
Just like cabbage, beans attract specific pests like a Mexican bean beetle, but when planted next to rosemary, the scent of the plants is masked to deter bugs. Ashlyn Needham, The Spruce, 16 Feb. 2026 Councilmember Corinna Contreras said she was bothered by the proposal to ban the movable tiny homes in the city’s specific plan areas, which include neighborhoods such as downtown, Shadowridge, and Townsite. Stacy Brandt, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Feb. 2026
Noun
The sheriff’s department said the activity was part of the Guthrie investigation but declined to detail specifics. ABC News, 14 Feb. 2026 Authorities did not elaborate on the specifics of the lead that led the SWAT operation. Daniel Kreps, Rolling Stone, 14 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for specific
Recent Examples of Synonyms for specific
Adjective
  • For her 38th birthday, Rih opted to embrace some special vintage Gucci.
    Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 22 Feb. 2026
  • And coaching his daughter has been extra special.
    Chris Hays, The Orlando Sentinel, 21 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Under pressure from governments, including threats of bans and fines, X restricted Grok’s ability to generate certain explicit images last month.
    Hanna Ziady, CNN Money, 17 Feb. 2026
  • No explicit demands were left at the scene of the crime, but the crime is believed to have been a kidnapping.
    Timothy Nerozzi, The Washington Examiner, 16 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • In June, Hawkins, 49, of Minneapolis, pleaded guilty to felony aiding an offender by being an accomplice after the fact for helping Powers.
    Nick Ferraro, Twin Cities, 17 Feb. 2026
  • The fact that the fabric also sported a *gasp* sparkly finish?
    Madeline Hirsch, InStyle, 17 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • These characteristics are amplified by Fire, a flamboyant element that represents boldness, passion, and action.
    Marie Bladt, Vogue, 20 Feb. 2026
  • Reliable characteristics in your players.
    Chris Perkins, Sun Sentinel, 20 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • The government also stopped collecting and reporting crucial survey findings on transgender students — data that have shown higher rates of depression, drug use, bullying and other problems.
    Mike Stobbe, Los Angeles Times, 18 Feb. 2026
  • Beer that turned green − possibly a chemical reaction with the drugs Dominque Pelicot had been slipping into her drinks and food to render her unconscious for the rapes.
    Kathryn Palmer, USA Today, 18 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • American requests to use UK bases for operational purposes historically have been considered on a case-by-case basis, with precise criteria withheld for security reasons under long-standing agreements.
    Brad Lendon, CNN Money, 20 Feb. 2026
  • Instead of approaching concept artists with vague direction, Rune Entertainment’s process is structured to deliver precise briefs rooted in narrative intent and visual logic.
    Daniel Fusch, USA Today, 19 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The Pro Football Hall of Fame is a definite possibility.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 17 Feb. 2026
  • There are definite pros and cons to buying silver once your working days are over, experts say.
    Aly J Yale, CBS News, 16 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Before arrival, guests receive a text with check-in details and room codes, and the team is available by call or text throughout the stay.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Feb. 2026
  • Like many other pastors in Springfield, DeGroat was circumspect on the details of those plans, citing safety reasons.
    Caitlin Hu, CNN Money, 20 Feb. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Specific.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/specific. Accessed 23 Feb. 2026.

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