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 what works for this writer are powerful hits of nostalgia, preferably from childhood, preferably in relation to football, preferably, and more specifically, to the aesthetics of football. —Nick Miller, New York Times, 20 Mar. 2026

Paul addressed the news during a press junket on Tuesday but did not comment specifically on the allegations against her. —Jodi Guglielmi, Rolling Stone, 19 Mar. 2026

The most immediate relief available is a pivot away from HBM dependency toward commodity DRAM architectures engineered specifically for AI’s requirements. —Sha Rabii, Fortune, 19 Mar. 2026

Better Habitat and Hunting in Roadless Areas Looking specifically at big-game species in the West, where around 87 percent of our National Forests are located, roadless areas provide the core habitat that elk, mule deer, and other critters rely on. —Dac Collins, Outdoor Life, 19 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for specifically

• prolifically
• terrifically