Words / B1

sp-uh-SIF-ik/spəˈsɪfɪk/

Specific means clear and exact, not general. Be specific; a specific example; specific instructions. Special means different or for a particular purpose (a special offer) — learners mix these. Specifically is the adverb. Details and specific go together in exam tasks.

Meaning

Clear and exact; not general.

Examples

• “Can you be more specific about the problem?”
• “The rules are specific about timing.”
• “Could you give a specific date?”

Good to know

specific + noun. Adverb: specifically. Not the same as special.

Near in meaning

exact, particular

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