Word
specify
Phoneticsspec·i·fy, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈspɛsəˌfaɪ/
UK/spˈɛsɪfˌaɪ/
Definitions
01to state clearly
B2 · Upper Intermediate Academic
v. to give specific details or name exactly what you want or need.
v. to state explicitly or in detail, often as a requirement or condition. Transitive — requires a direct object or a 'that' clause.
日本語:指定する※
“The contract does not specify how much the workers will be paid.”
“The building regulations specify that all materials used in the foundation must be fire-resistant and sourced from approved suppliers.”
Antonyms
02to include in a list of requirements
C1 · Advanced Technology Technical · Formal
v. to include something in a formal list of technical instructions.
v. to include a particular item or material in a technical specification or design plan.
日本語:明記する※
“The architect specified expensive marble for the lobby floor.”
“The lead engineer specified a high-grade titanium alloy for the turbine blades to ensure maximum durability under extreme thermal stress.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “specify” in context.
Verb
01. specify information
“The application form requires you to specify information regarding your previous work experience.”
verb + noun
Real-World Examples
“He did not specify what punishment countries might face.” “Davis did not specify who reached for the weapon.” Etymology
From Middle English specifien, from Old French specifier, especefier, or directly from Medieval Latin specificō, from specificus (“specific”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper IntermediateOxford
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/specify
※ 機械で選んだ訳語です。ネイティブスピーカーによる確認はまだです。
「日本語」 data: JMdict (EDRDG), CC BY-SA 4.0