specifically
Americanadverb
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in a definite or precise manner.
The suspect was not specifically named in the report. More specifically, you will be responsible for half the total cost.
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with an exact use or purpose in mind.
The manual is written specifically for nonexperts.
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with reference to qualities that are peculiar or proper to someone or something.
Our classes are specifically different from other yoga programs.
Etymology
Origin of specifically
First recorded in 1620–25; specific ( def. ) + -ly ( def. )
Explanation
Specifically means particularly, or regarding one option out of several. You specifically requested that your birthday cake be chocolate with raspberry icing, so you were quite disappointed with the vanilla cake you were served instead. The adverb specifically comes from the Latin specificus, and shares a root with special and species. If you specifically choose something, you have made a special choice about it. If you single something out specifically, it's particularly significant. A documentary about this history of childhood might have been a real eye-opener, specifically the part about how kids used to go to work at 12 or younger.
Vocabulary lists containing specifically
"Diary of a Wimpy Kid" by Jeff Kinney
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Because of Winn-Dixie
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The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl
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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.
“Renoir” takes place in 1987 specifically because that’s the year she turned 11, and, like her protagonist, she was infatuated with “Little Irène.”
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 5, 2026
The library includes reading chairs specifically selected by the former president.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 4, 2026
It said the shift was "driven by economic pragmatism and evolving values, with 40% of couples stating it is specifically important that their stone be lab grown".
From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026
Annual recurring revenue, or ARR, was $8.1 billion specifically for the next-generation security product, and $6.5 billion, excluding the impact of the newly-acquired Chronosphere and CyberArk.
From Barron's • Jun. 3, 2026
In the fortress behind mine, however, lived an orange cat who came and went from her house at will through a push entrance specifically designed for felines.
From "Klawde: Evil Alien Warlord Cat" by Johnny Marciano and Emily Chenoweth
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
