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

But Giamatteo sees the QNX business as key to a future in AI, specifically, physical AI, a term that encompasses products like autonomous cars and robotics. — Arjun Kharpal,kai Nicol-Schwarz, CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026

Such offenses are commonly prosecuted under voyeurism or invasion-of-privacy statutes, though some states have adopted laws specifically targeting upskirting. — Thao Nguyen, USA Today, 27 Aug. 2026

The letter did not specifically discuss anti-vaccine activism. — Ali Swenson, Fortune, 27 Aug. 2026

Building an electric future The vessel was designed specifically for Adbri’s coastal limestone route between Klein Point and Birkenhead. — Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 27 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for specifically

• prolifically
• terrifically