specify
Americanverb (used with object)
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to mention or name specifically or definitely; state in detail.
He did not specify the amount needed.
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to give a specific character to.
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to set forth as a specification.
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to name or state as a condition.
He specified that he be given my power of attorney.
verb (used without object)
verb
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to refer to or state specifically
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to state as a condition
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to state or include in the specification of
Other Word Forms
- misspecified adjective
- nonspecified adjective
- prespecify verb (used with object)
- respecify verb
- specificative adjective
- specificatively adverb
- specifier noun
- underspecified adjectiveunderspecified, underspecifying
- underspecify verb (used with object)
- unspecified adjective
- unspecifying adjective
Etymology
Origin of specify
First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English specyfyen, from Old French specifier, from Medieval Latin specificāre “to describe, mention particularly,” from specific(us) specific + āre, infinitive verb suffix
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 report did not specify how many employees left Israel to work for foreign companies versus Israeli firms based abroad, or how many have since returned to Israel.
From Barron's
The document specifies that “the word ‘property’ as used herein shall mean and include everything, whether tangible or intangible, subject to ownership.”
In France, the measure will come into effect after the publication of an order specifying the detailed procedures, and after prior training for the officers concerned, the ministry told AFP.
From Barron's
Friedman did not specify when Ohtani will depart for the WBC, but he did say Ohtani will continue to throw on his off days with Team Japan as he ramps up for opening day.
From Los Angeles Times
Ukrainian state oil-and-gas company Naftogaz reported a fire at one of its facilities on the day of the attack without specifying the location, noting it was the 15th attack on their facilities in a month.
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.
