specifically

adverb

spe·​cif·​i·​cal·​ly spi-ˈsi-fi-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce specifically (audio)
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

Examples of specifically in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Along those lines, Google's new models build upon its Gemini 2.0 large language model foundation, adding capabilities specifically for robotic applications. Ashley Belanger, Ars Technica, 12 Mar. 2025 In his new biography of Barnes, Blake Gopnik foregrounds this democratic ethos, focusing specifically on the philanthropist’s contributions to building racial equality—despite Barnes’s notoriously cantankerous personality and his tendency toward invective and slur. Kelly Presutti, ARTnews.com, 12 Mar. 2025 Louisiana has one of the highest poverty rates in the country, and the program specifically focuses on those most burdened by outstanding debts. Faisal Kutty, Newsweek, 12 Mar. 2025 While there is no law on the books specifically concerning rug-pulling, most successful rug-pull ventures involve fraud, conspiracy, or other criminal acts. Chris Groshong, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for specifically

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of specifically was in 1646

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Cite this Entry

“Specifically.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/specifically. Accessed 17 Mar. 2025.

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