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

Trump specifically brought up David Ellison’s recent hiring of Bari Weiss as CBS News editor-in-chief, albeit not by name. —Brian Stelter, CNN Money, 3 Nov. 2025

For this region specifically, Avalo aims to develop seeds that address its water and climate issues. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 3 Nov. 2025

All products are conceived, developed and produced through close collaboration with artisans, suppliers and partners in Italy and specifically Tuscany — helping to shorten its supply chain, reduce environmental impact and preserve the local artisanal tradition. —Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 3 Nov. 2025

Take the legendary hedge fund manager Ray Dalio, who told my colleague Diane Brady onstage that America is developing a dependency on a tiny cohort of high-level workers, specifically those in tech. —Kristin Stoller, Fortune, 3 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for specifically

• prolifically
• terrifically