ENGLISH
REFERENCE

specifying

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈspɛsəˌfaɪɪŋ// UK //spˈɛsɪfˌaɪɪŋ// spec·i·fy·ing

v. giving exact details or naming something clearly so there is no confusion.

v. identifying or naming a particular requirement, detail, or item clearly and precisely. Often used to establish conditions in a contract or technical document.


SIMPLE

The contract is specifying the exact date of completion.

CONTEXTUAL

The architect is specifying the exact materials needed for the foundation to ensure the building's safety.

COMPLEX

By specifying the precise parameters of the experiment, the lead researcher ensured that any other laboratory could replicate the results with minimal variation.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Etymology 1

From Middle English specifieng, equivalent to specify + -ing.

Etymology 2

From Middle English specifienge, equivalent to specify + -ing.

Usage

The present participle of 'specify'. Transitive — requires a direct object or a 'that' clause.

Pitfall

specifying about the detailsspecifying the detailsThe verb is transitive and does not require the preposition 'about'.

© 2026 English Reference