specify

[ spes-uh-fahy ]

verb (used with object)

, spec·i·fied, spec·i·fy·ing.

1. to mention or name specifically or definitely; state in detail:

   He did not specify the amount needed.

   Synonyms: stipulate, enumerate, indicate, detail

2. to give a specific character to.
3. to set forth as a specification.
4. to name or state as a condition:

   He specified that he be given my power of attorney.

verb (used without object)

, spec·i·fied, spec·i·fy·ing.

1. to make a specific mention or statement.

specify

/ ˈspɛsɪfɪˌkeɪtɪv; ˈspɛsɪˌfaɪ /

verb

1. to refer to or state specifically
2. to state as a condition
3. to state or include in the specification of

Derived Forms

• specificative, adjective
• ˈspeciˌfier, noun

Other Words From

• spec·i·fi·ca·tive [spes, -, uh, -fi-key-tiv], adjective
• speci·fi·cative·ly adverb
• speci·fier noun
• mis·speci·fied adjective
• non·speci·fied adjective
• pre·speci·fy verb (used with object) prespecified prespecifying
• re·speci·fy verb respecified respecifying
• under·speci·fied adjective
• under·speci·fy verb (used with object) underspecified underspecifying
• un·speci·fied adjective
• un·speci·fying adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of specify¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of specify¹

C13: from Medieval Latin specificāre to describe

Example Sentences

"However, it is not possible to specify the number of beds available as the suitability of each placement is based on assessed needs," the spokesperson added.

From BBC

At the time, the government said she was taking a short break before starting her new role, but did not specify how long for.

From BBC

Though he did not specify to the Times whether Simon’s gripe was with his scathing 2015 comments, Garfunkel admitted to the Times, “I was a fool.”

From Los Angeles Times

Officials said the body was “decomposed,” but could not specify how long the person had been dead.

From Los Angeles Times

The increase was driven by new restaurant openings and an overall increase in comparable restaurant sales, the company specified.

From Salon

Related Words

• cite
• define
• determine
• enumerate
• establish
• fix
• indicate
• lay out
• limit
• mention
• point out
• spell out
• stipulate