# specifications

/ˌspɛsəfəˈkeɪʃənz/ (US) · /spˌɛsɪfɪkˈeɪʃənz/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/specifications
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. technical requirements

noun · CEFR B2 · Technical

a detailed list of instructions or rules that explain exactly how something must be made or how it should work.

For teachers: a set of documented requirements that provide an exact description of an object, material, or process. Usually plural in this sense.

- The new laptop meets all the technical specifications we need for video editing.
- The contractor failed to adhere to the original architectural specifications, resulting in significant structural delays during the final phase of construction.

Usage: Often shortened to 'specs' in informal professional contexts.

Teaching tip: While 'specification' can be singular when referring to one specific detail, the plural 'specifications' is the standard way to refer to the complete document or set of rules.

## Examples

- The new laptop meets all my technical specifications.
- Before we start building the engine, we must review the safety specifications provided by the engineering team.
- The architect revised the structural specifications to ensure the building could withstand the seismic activity common in the region without exceeding the client's strict budget.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.