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

But Ginther noted that the way the stars were to be laid out was never specified, which means some of the designs can appear to be curious and compelling. — Eric Shawn, FOXNews.com, 2 July 2026

What’s In The Release Apple’s release notes specify that the content is all security-related. — David Phelan, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026

Smith did not specify the type of cancer, but said the illness had spread and Whimsy needed to begin chemotherapy. — Alexandra Del Rosario, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2026

The state law, however, does not specify what enforcement should look like. — Max Klaver, Miami Herald, 1 July 2026