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

Nguyen, who won Do’s seat after his resignation, said the money should be used to specifically support residents who were deprived of services funded by the $10 million in pandemic relief money that Do had directed to nonprofits after receiving bribes. —Claire Wang, Oc Register, 10 June 2026

Inside linebacker and captain Robert Spillane was repeatedly targeted in coverage, specifically when isolated 1-on-1 against running backs and tight ends. —Andrew Callahan, Boston Herald, 9 June 2026

The City of Loveland reached the agreement, not specifically the Loveland Police Department. —Dillon Thomas, CBS News, 9 June 2026

Now researchers have analyzed samples taken from within the structure itself—specifically, the crater’s peak ring, an inner ring that formed when the Chicxulub impact produced enough debris to form a mound in the center of its crater that later collapses. —Meghan Bartels, Scientific American, 9 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for specifically

• prolifically
• terrifically