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

The product was an album uniquely and specifically of the moment, so hyperpresent that its trademark color became the backdrop to an entire summer. — Zoe Sottile, CNN Money, 24 July 2026

Saudi Arabia already was diverting much more of its oil via pipelines to the Red Sea specifically to avoid Iranian attacks in the Persian Gulf’s Strait of Hormuz. — Jordan Blum, Fortune, 23 July 2026

Those drinks specifically will come canned, sealed in store by a machine the couple is bringing with them. — Katelyn Umholtz, Kansas City Star, 23 July 2026

Imax just released numbers for the second quarter ended in June, but eyes are on July – specifically, the massive debut of The Odyssey that just provided the big screen exhibitor with its most muscular opening weekend ever. — Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 23 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for specifically

• prolifically
• terrifically