specifically
English meaning: Specifically
Definition
In a specific manner, applying to or naming a particular thing or things, expressly, explicitly
Example
“This medicine was developed specifically to treat childhood asthma.”
Another example: “The grant is intended specifically for first-time researchers.”
Usage — When, Where & How
A common adverb meaning in a precise, particular way, or for a definite purpose. Used to single out one thing among others ('specifically designed for children') and to introduce a precise example. Neutral to formal register.
Etymology & Origin
English — Origin & History
From Late Latin 'specificus' (constituting a kind), from Latin 'species' (kind) + '-ly'; in English from the 17th century.
Synonyms
- particularly
- explicitly
- expressly
- exactly
- precisely
- namely
Antonyms / Opposites
- generally
- broadly
- vaguely
Related Words
- acceptor
- systematic
- enzyme
- nad
- donor
- transferring
- targeted
- bonds
- excluded
- oxygen
Common Collocations
- specifically designed
- specifically tailored
- more specifically
- specifically aimed
- specifically requested
- specifically mentioned
Word Forms
specific (adj); specifically (adv); specify (v); specification (n)
Word Tools
Literary Heritage
“To thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst not then be false to any man.”
/To thine own self be true/
“Be honest with yourself — and as naturally as night follows day, you will be unable to be false to others.”
“I'm nobody! Who are you? Are you nobody, too?”
/I'm nobody! Who are you?/
“I am nobody — and that quiet anonymity is more honest than the noise of public fame.”
Images
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Language information
- Language
- English
- English
- Script
- Latin
- Family
- Indo-European
- Speakers
- 1.5B