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

• especially
• notably
• particularly
• specially

Examples of specifically in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The idea was to designate the base of the Anthropocene as the layer of Crawford Lake sediment laid down in 1952—and, more specifically, as the 1952 layer preserved in one particular core kept in a freezer in Quebec. —Elizabeth Kolbert, The New Yorker, 20 Apr. 2024

State law requires officials and candidates to disclose certain liabilities — specifically, any debt to a creditor that’s greater than $10,000, with the exception of credit card debt. —Paul Egan, Detroit Free Press, 20 Apr. 2024

Fertilizer Your tiny plants need only a light feeding of a liquid fertilizer formulated specifically for succulents and diluted with water to half the regular strength. —Lynn McAlpine, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Apr. 2024

In India, OpenAI faces competition from the likes of Alphabet Inc.’s Google, which is developing an AI model specifically for the country. —Sankalp Phartiyal, Fortune Asia, 19 Apr. 2024

Formulated specifically for the skin on the neck, these creams deserve a top spot in any routine mindful of keeping skin radiant and wrinkle-free. —Jenny Berg, Vogue, 19 Apr. 2024

Rolling out new versions of beloved games, such as models designed specifically for kids and teens, is common. —Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 18 Apr. 2024

As the film’s writer, director, and producer, Kahn and team were finishing the project in September of 2023, combining digital cinematography by NASA, ESA, and commercial satellite launch company Arianespace with animations and graphics created specifically for IMAX. —Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 18 Apr. 2024

Reviewers specifically call out their comfort for everyday activities. —Jamie Allison Sanders, Peoplemag, 18 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1