specific 1 of 2

Definition of specificnext

specific

2 of 2

noun

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective specific differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of specific are especial, individual, particular, and special. While all these words mean "of or relating to one thing or class," specific implies a quality or character distinguishing a kind or a species.

children with specific nutritional needs

Where would especial be a reasonable alternative to specific?

The words especial and specific can be used in similar contexts, but especial may add implications of preeminence or preference.

a matter of especial importance

When can individual be used instead of specific?

While the synonyms individual and specific are close in meaning, individual implies unequivocal reference to one of a class or group.

valued each individual opinion

When could particular be used to replace specific?

The synonyms particular and specific are sometimes interchangeable, but particular stresses the distinctness of something as an individual.

a ballet step of particular difficulty

When is it sensible to use special instead of specific?

In some situations, the words special and specific are roughly equivalent. However, special stresses having a quality, character, identity, or use of its own.

special ingredients

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of specific
Adjective
While Toray has not disclosed the specific chemical modification behind the material, the company says the new formulation can reduce curing times by up to 45 percent. Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 5 July 2026 The figure is even higher for bathroom-specific appointments, where roughly three-quarters of visits involved the technology. Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 5 July 2026
Noun
Navy officials in Manta, a larger, neighboring port city, said that a search had been activated, but offered no specifics. Will Freeman, New Yorker, 30 June 2026 Francona wouldn't go into specifics on what ailment Myers may be dealing with. Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for specific
Recent Examples of Synonyms for specific
Adjective
  • The Kelce brothers have a special royal guest joining their podcast before the Swift wedding extravaganza.
    Bryan West, USA Today, 4 July 2026
  • Back in December 2023, Travis opened up about receiving a special gift from his new brother-in-law, who was dressed as Santa.
    Ashlyn Robinette, PEOPLE, 4 July 2026
Adjective
  • There is no more explicit example of the vulnerability of American democracy, and of the magnitude of the task of repairing it once it is breached.
    Lauren Collins, New Yorker, 3 July 2026
  • The real toxicity concern, per The New Republic‘s review of contractor materials, confirming previous reporting from Meidas News, lies in the epoxy resin used for the pool’s new lining, which carries explicit long-term aquatic toxicity warnings.
    Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 2 July 2026
Noun
  • Add the question marks surrounding Rodón to the fact that Fried (elbow bone bruise) doesn’t seem likely to return for at least a few more weeks.
    Brendan Kuty, New York Times, 5 July 2026
  • This ignores the obvious fact that the Constitution prohibits Congress from giving official status to any religion or from preventing someone from practicing the religion of their choice.
    Kenneth Seeskin, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 2026
Noun
  • Three months later, the Supreme Court voted to allow immigration agents to stop people based on racial or ethnic characteristics while still-ongoing litigation against it proceeded.
    Ken B. Morales, ProPublica, 1 July 2026
  • For example, the experienced representative knew from past cases that when the customer had three particular characteristics, the usual answer would be wrong.
    Bill Conerly, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026
Noun
  • But George played just 41 games in the 2024-25 season and 37 last season, when he was suspended for 25 games late in the regular season for violating the league’s drug policy.
    Tim Casey, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
  • The drugs typically range in cost from $2,000 to $3,500 for a 30-day supply.
    Tamar Hallerman, AJC.com, 1 July 2026
Adjective
  • Researchers think this is because walking is a highly dynamic behaviour that requires precise timing across both sides of the body.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 1 July 2026
  • Financial markets depend on precise timing to synchronize transactions.
    Mariam Sorond, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026
Adjective
  • Overall definite recommend on Screen Engine and Rentrak’s Postmark audience exits was 52%, versus Superman at 74%.
    Anthony D'Alessandro, Deadline, 29 June 2026
  • Elements like paint, lighting, furniture, and decor are definite opportunities to have a little more fun with trends without worrying about longer-term ramifications.
    Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 June 2026
Noun
  • With a spacious 45-liter capacity and thoughtful details like hideaway shoulder straps, interior compression straps, and a dedicated laptop compartment, it's got all the bells and whistles and can still fit in the overhead.
    Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 30 June 2026
  • Officials have not released the child's age or identity, and no additional details have been made public.
    Anna McAllister, CBS News, 30 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Specific.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/specific. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.

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