specifically

adverb

spe·​cif·​i·​cal·​ly spi-ˈsi-fi-k(ə-)lē 

1

: in a specific manner : in a definite and exact way : with precision

instructed them specifically on how to proceed

the people specifically named in the report

The reasons for the change were not specifically mentioned.

I specifically told her not to bother you.

Knead the bread dough for several minutes, or, more specifically, until it forms a smooth ball.

2

—used to indicate the exact identity, purpose, or use of something

The show is aimed specifically at a female audience.

Specifically, the stores are lowering the height of store shelving, changing out signs, repainting some areas and … putting products next to each other that customers typically buy together.

—Jill Rick

Synonyms of specifically

• especially
• particularly
• notably
• specially

Examples of specifically in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

And when evaluating vendors, ask specifically how their training data was built and how physician edits feed back into the model. — Pat Williams, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2026

Meanwhile, officials in several California counties have reported increases in animals testing positive for the deadly viral disease — specifically bats. — Gagandeep Singh, Sacbee.com, 15 Sep. 2026

This is a physically mature 18-year-old player, and while elements of his game will require some work — specifically his shot selection — his two-way instincts and physical makeup are near NHL-ready, if not NHL-ready outright. — Thomas Drance, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2026

Lilly's purchase of AtaiBeckley in psychedelic drugs for mental health conditions and Centessa in sleep disorders such as narcolepsy were two deals that Berenberg specifically called out. — Jeff Marks,kevin Stankiewicz, CNBC, 15 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for specifically

• prolifically
• terrifically