Word
specifying
Phoneticsspec·i·fy·ing, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈspɛsəˌfaɪɪŋ/
UK/spˈɛsɪfˌaɪɪŋ/
Definitions
01naming exactly
B2 · Upper Intermediate
v. naming or describing something exactly so that people know exactly what you mean.
v. the present participle of 'specify', used to indicate the act of identifying a requirement or detail with precision.
“The contract was very clear, specifying exactly when the work had to be finished.”
“The architect submitted the final blueprints, specifying the exact grade of steel required for the structural supports.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
02the act of being precise
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Academic · Formal
n. the act of giving clear and exact information about something.
n. the gerund form used as a noun to denote the process of stating or describing something with exactness.
“Specifying the right materials at the start of the project saved us a lot of money.”
“The careful specifying of technical requirements is essential before any procurement process begins.”
Synonyms
Usage
The present participle of 'specify'. Transitive — requires a direct object or a 'that' clause.
Pitfall
specifying about the details
specifying the details
The verb is transitive and does not require the preposition 'about'.
Real-World Examples
“If you want one in an official taxi, it’s best to order one in advance specifying this or bring your own.” “A key concept to understanding security mechanisms is a threat model specifying the problem it is and isn’t intended to solve.” Etymology
From Middle English specifieng, equivalent to specify + -ing.
From Middle English specifienge, equivalent to specify + -ing.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- 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
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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