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specs

n. · v.
US //ˈspɛks// UK //spˈɛks// specs
  1. 1 glasses (n.)
    B1 Intermediate Informal British English

    an informal word for glasses that you wear to see better.

    an informal clipping of 'spectacles', referring to corrective eyewear.

    Example

    I need to get my specs repaired because the frame is bent.

    Example

    He fumbled for his specs on the bedside table, unable to read the clock without the thick lenses.

    Usage

    Always used in the plural form when referring to eyewear.

    Teacher's tip

    While understood globally, this is particularly common in British English; 'glasses' is the more neutral choice for learners.

  2. 2 to specify (v.)
    C1 Advanced Informal Technical Technical

    to write down or choose the exact details for a project.

    to provide or include specific technical requirements for a design or product.

    Example

    The architect usually specs high-quality wood for the floors.

    Example

    The client specs a very particular type of reinforced glass for the storefront, which significantly increased the overall budget.

    Usage

    This is the third-person singular form of the verb 'to spec'.

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