specifically
gb/spɪsˈɪfɪkli/ us/spɪsˈɪfɪkli/
B1
English
~ 2400
Senses
0 senses
adverb
B1
property
1
Exactly and precisely
In a way that is exact and clear, not general.
Usage pattern:
to refer specifically to [something]
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'specifically' with 'especially'. 'Specifically' means in a precise way, while 'especially' means 'more than others' or 'particularly'.
Synonyms
precisely (Very close in meaning; can sometimes sound slightly more formal or technical.)
|
exactly (Common synonym; often used more casually than 'specifically'.)
Antonyms
generally (Means broadly or usually, the opposite of focusing on exact detail.)
|
vaguely (Means without clear details, the opposite of being specific.)
Collocations
specifically designed
|specifically mentioned
|specifically for
|meant specifically
|specifically address
Themes
communication
|clarity
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- The manager spoke specifically about the need for better communication.
- This course is designed specifically for beginners.
- She asked specifically if you would be at the meeting.
- The rule applies specifically to online transactions.
- He mentioned your name specifically during the discussion.
Learner examples
- This book is made specifically for children.
- I want to talk specifically about your idea.
- The teacher spoke specifically to me.
- This room is used specifically for meetings.
adverb
B1
relation
2
For a particular purpose or person
Only for one person, thing, or purpose, not for others.
Usage pattern:
made specifically for [someone/something]
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes use 'special' instead of 'specifically', but 'special' is an adjective, not an adverb.
Synonyms
exclusively (Stresses that something is only for one person or group.)
|
solely (Emphasizes that there are no other purposes or recipients.)
Antonyms
generally (Means for most people or cases, not just one.)
Collocations
specifically for you
|specifically tailored
|specifically created
|specifically intended
Themes
daily life
|customization
|communication
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- This software was developed specifically for small businesses.
- We chose this venue specifically because it has wheelchair access.
- She called specifically to thank you.
- These shoes are made specifically for running on trails.
Learner examples
- This chair is made specifically for tall people.
- I came here specifically to see you.
- He bought the gift specifically for her.
- This bag is designed specifically for travel.
Grammar
Dictionary form
specifically
IPA
GB/spɪsˈɪfɪkli/
US/spɪsˈɪfɪkli/
Syllables & stress
spe - cific - ally (3 syllables)
Stress on 2nd syllable (cific)
Word forms
Noun
- Base: specifically
- Plural: specificallies
Word family
Forms
specificallies
noun
Related words
specification
noun B2
Advanced or less common
specificity
noun
Expressions
ask specifically for
1/ˈæsk spɪsˈɪfɪkli fɚ/
fixed phrase
Request something exact by name/description
To say clearly what you want when asking.
Examples
- If you want soy milk, you need to ask specifically for it.
- She asked specifically for a quiet room away from the street.
more specifically
1/mˈɔɹ spɪsˈɪfɪkli/
fixed phrase
In a more precise way
Used to give a clearer or more exact explanation.
Examples
- I enjoy outdoor activities; more specifically, I like hiking and cycling.
- The meeting is about safety—more specifically, fire safety.
quite specifically
1/kwˈaɪt spɪsˈɪfɪkli/
fixed phrase
Very exactly and clearly
In a very clear and exact way.
Examples
- He told me quite specifically not to touch anything.
- She asked quite specifically for the blue folder.