Specifying
ˈspɛsɪˌfaɪɪŋ
Definitions
To clearly and explicitly state or define something, often in detail.
ˈspɛsɪˌfaɪ
To state or identify clearly and definitely.
The instructions clearly specify the steps to assemble the product.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're telling your friend what toppings to put on your pizza. Specifying is like saying exactly, 'I want pepperoni, mushrooms, and extra cheese,' so there's no confusion!
👶 For kids: To tell someone exactly what you want or what something is.
More Examples
Could you please specify the exact time of the meeting?
The designer needed to specify the dimensions of the new building.
How It's Used
"The software documentation should specify the required system configurations."
"The contract specifies the payment terms."
"The professor asked students to specify their research questions."
Idioms & expressions
specify a condition
To set a condition or requirement.
"The contract specifies a condition where the payment is contingent upon project completion."
From the Middle English 'specifien,' from Old French 'especifier,' from Latin 'specificare' meaning 'to define precisely, to specify.' Ultimately from 'species' meaning 'kind' or 'sort' and 'facere' meaning 'to make or do.'
The word 'specify' has been used since the 16th century, initially focusing on the precise definition of things.
Memory tip
Think of 'specific' – to make something specific is to specify it.