specify
verb (used with object)
to mention or name specifically or definitely; state in detail.
had specified
-
past perfectof specify.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The law creating the FTC had specified the offenses that would warrant a firing, but FDR hadn’t shown that the commissioner had committed any of them.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 30, 2026
Moreover, a letter sent by the agriculture ministry to provincial governors this week and reviewed by Reuters had specified the ban would only be for RBD palm olein.
From Reuters ● Apr. 29, 2022
From her attorney, Kristin Eliason, Clark learned that the stay-away order entered in the criminal case had specified only no contact with the victims.
From Washington Post ● Jan. 30, 2019
The original bill had specified that children and young adults between age 12 and 21 should be exempted, but other lawmakers sought to shift the lower limit upward, to age 14.
From Seattle Times ● Feb. 28, 2018
But when she was selected Birthmother at the Ceremony, part of her list of instructions had specified: No pills.
From "Son" by Lois Lowry
