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Definition of specificnext

specific

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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
The tool largely works to integrate a dealerships specific needs into its system and create AI agents that complete tasks to aid the employees. Olivia Evans, Louisville Courier Journal, 10 Feb. 2026 Fees for classes cost about $45 per month, but prospective students are encouraged to call or inquire at specific locations. Everett Eaton, jsonline.com, 10 Feb. 2026
Noun
The sheriff’s department said the activity was part of the Guthrie investigation but declined to detail specifics. ABC News, 14 Feb. 2026 Authorities did not elaborate on the specifics of the lead that led the SWAT operation. Daniel Kreps, Rolling Stone, 14 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for specific
Recent Examples of Synonyms for specific
Adjective
  • The spa also includes hairdressing and nail care services, with special treatments for brides.
    José Cantillo Ferrer, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Feb. 2026
  • These special beings unite to try and discover their true evolutionary purpose while being watched and hunted by a dark group called the Whispers.
    Jeff Spry, Space.com, 14 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • While the researchers don’t know for sure why speed training showed a benefit while the other forms did not, one possibility lies in the difference between implicit and explicit learning.
    Akshay Syal, NBC news, 9 Feb. 2026
  • Wuthering Heights has the tunnel-vision horniness and girlish aesthetic sensibility of a high-school freshman who’s been assigned to read Brontë in class while tearing through a pile of explicit bodice-rippers under the covers at home.
    Alison Willmore, Vulture, 9 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • In 2018, Guthrie celebrated the fact that her brother had retired from military flying and had taken his final flight as an F-16 pilot.
    Edward Segarra, USA Today, 11 Feb. 2026
  • They're exhausted by the constant airing of grievances having little to do with what's actually going on in the country, and by the broad generalizations about, well, everything, that ignore context, nuance and facts to promote a political viewpoint.
    Brenda Looper, Arkansas Online, 11 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • In vacating the life prison term in 2024, Cook County Judge Marc Martin found in part that Modrowski had been unfairly portrayed as emotionless and cold during his 1995 trial and sentencing proceedings when the characteristics were likely due to his autism.
    Christy Gutowski, Chicago Tribune, 13 Feb. 2026
  • And what physical characteristics is law enforcement focusing on that might help people locate them?
    Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 13 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • In a 2014 editorial, the Times argued the federal ban on the drug should be repealed, and the decision should be left up to the individual states.
    Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 11 Feb. 2026
  • Last year, his administration announced a series of deals with pharmaceutical companies to lower prices of a few dozen drugs, including some eye-popping decreases of anywhere from 55 to 98 percent.
    Rogé Karma, The Atlantic, 10 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Using fresh data from NASA’s Juno spacecraft, researchers at Israel’s Weizmann Institute of Science have produced the most precise measurements yet of the solar system’s largest planet, showing that Jupiter is slightly smaller and more flattened than earlier estimates suggested.
    Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 5 Feb. 2026
  • Advertising in the Super Bowl is usually a play for mass reach, but some marketers are using the spectacle in more precise fashion.
    Brian Steinberg, Variety, 5 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Currently, Scream 7 is great with the 17-34 bunch and multicultural audiences across definite interest and first choice.
    Anthony D'Alessandro, Deadline, 5 Feb. 2026
  • There's a definite need to take a look at systemic safety on our roadways.
    Kayla Moeller, CBS News, 30 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • For more details on the claims process or to download a claim form, visit the Hoosier Lottery Winners page or contact the customer service team at 1-800-955-6886.
    Chris Sims, IndyStar, 6 Feb. 2026
  • Authorities offer chilling new details The sheriff's office has asked the public to contact 520-351-4900 with any information or the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324).
    Anna Kaufman, USA Today, 6 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Specific.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/specific. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026.

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