specifically
adverb
spe·cif·i·cal·ly
spi-ˈsi-fi-k(ə-)lē 
1
: in a specific manner : in a definite and exact way : with precision
instructed them specifically on how to proceed
the people specifically named in the report
The reasons for the change were not specifically mentioned.
I specifically told her not to bother you.
Knead the bread dough for several minutes, or, more specifically, until it forms a smooth ball.
2
—used to indicate the exact identity, purpose, or use of something
The show is aimed specifically at a female audience.
Specifically, the stores are lowering the height of store shelving, changing out signs, repainting some areas and … putting products next to each other that customers typically buy together.—
Jill Rick
Jill RickExamples of specifically in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Our favorites from Leesa are its cooling mattresses, specifically the Leesa Sapira Chill and the Leesa Legend Chill Hybrid.
—Nena Farrell, Wired News, 23 May 2025
More specifically, the crested variety—commonly referred to as cockscomb—produces blooms that resemble a rooster's comb.
—Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 May 2025
Whirlpool and Finish both advise against rinsing dishes, specifically with dish detergent, before placing them in the dishwasher as the detergent may inhibit the cleaning cycle.
—Greta Cross, USA Today, 23 May 2025
The minister specifically framed it as a religious issue, noting that Russia and Ukraine are Orthodox countries.
—Timothy Nerozzi, The Washington Examiner, 23 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for specifically
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Nena Farrell, Wired News, 23 May 2025
More specifically, the crested variety—commonly referred to as cockscomb—produces blooms that resemble a rooster's comb.
—Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 May 2025
Whirlpool and Finish both advise against rinsing dishes, specifically with dish detergent, before placing them in the dishwasher as the detergent may inhibit the cleaning cycle.
—Greta Cross, USA Today, 23 May 2025
The minister specifically framed it as a religious issue, noting that Russia and Ukraine are Orthodox countries.
—Timothy Nerozzi, The Washington Examiner, 23 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for specifically
Cite this Entry
“Specifically.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/specifically. Accessed 3 Jun. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share