Synonyms of specify

specify

verb

ˈspe-sə-ˌfī 

1

as in to define

to give the rules about (something) clearly and exactly

the document specifies precisely how you may use the information it contains

Synonyms & Similar Words

• define
• prescribe
• dictate
• order
• direct
• tell
• arrange
• lay down
• choose
• select
• assign
• instruct
• set
• require
• manage
• compel
• control
• conduct
• decree
• govern
• constrain
• bid
• force
• ordain
• enjoin
• coerce
• fix
• command
• obligate
• lead
• settle
• oblige
• charge
• adjure

2

as in to mention

to make reference to or speak about briefly but specifically

police reports didn't specify the model of car the robbers were driving

Synonyms & Similar Words

• mention
• cite
• notice
• indicate
• note
• quote
• suggest
• instance
• name
• explain
• refer (to)
• introduce
• touch (on or upon)
• clarify
• infer
• imply
• announce
• intend
• designate
• advert (to)
• publish
• pronounce
• drop
• signify
• declare
• point (out)
• allude (to)
• advertise
• signal
• hint (at)
• proclaim
• publicize
• elucidate
• interpolate
• bring up
• denominate
• interject
• intimate
• spell out
• broadcast
• clear (up)
• sound
• interpose
• insinuate
• worm
• infiltrate
• explicate
• broach

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• forget
• ignore
• disregard
• slight
• overlook
• pass over
• neglect
• overpass

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of specify

Winners are responsible for all applicable federal, state and local taxes, if any, as well as any other costs and expenses associated with prize acceptance and use not specified herein as being provided. —Tim McGovern, PEOPLE, 18 May 2026

His contract, however, does not specify that. —Jeff Fedotin, Forbes.com, 18 May 2026

There is an uncountable infinity of them, but can this uncountability be specified? —Quanta Magazine, 18 May 2026

It was not specified whether this shutdown was the cause of the traffic jam during which the subsequent crash happened. —Adam Harrington, CBS News, 17 May 2026