1
Core logical function
Identify an exact detail, case, feature, or formulation within a broader statement.
Example
The study examines pollinators, specifically native bee species.
specifically
/spəˈsɪfɪkli/ · spuh-SIF-ik-leespecificity transition
Identify an exact detail, case, feature, or formulation within a broader statement.
Use specifically to express this relationship precisely: identify an exact detail, case, feature, or formulation within a broader statement.
What specifically Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Sentence connection
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
Specifically, the authors measure changes in soil moisture.
3
Argument-level effect
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
The policy targets transport costs—specifically, fuel and port fees.
Use specifically Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The study examines pollinators, specifically native bee species.
Specifically, the authors measure changes in soil moisture.
The policy targets transport costs—specifically, fuel and port fees.
Precision Matters
Specifically overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
specifically
vs.Means identify an exact detail, case, feature, or formulation within a broader statement.
more precisely
Means restate something with greater exactness or a narrower specification.
specifically
vs.Means identify an exact detail, case, feature, or formulation within a broader statement.
namely
Means identify exactly what a preceding general reference means or includes.
specifically
vs.Means identify an exact detail, case, feature, or formulation within a broader statement.
in particular
Means single out one especially relevant member, feature, or example from a broader group.
specifically
vs.Means identify an exact detail, case, feature, or formulation within a broader statement.
in other words
Means restate an idea in clearer, simpler, or more explicit terms.
Test specifically in Context
The phrase identifies the exact source referred to generally.
1
The report analyses one source of error, ___ the delay between collection and measurement.