specific

UK: /spəˈsɪf.ɪk/ | US: /spəˈsɪf.ɪk/

Definition

  1. adj. clearly defined or identified

  2. adj. relating to a particular subject or purpose

  3. adj. (biology) of or denoting a species

Structure
spec <see, observe>ific <making, causing>spec <see, observe>ific <making, causing>
Etymology

Derived from Late Latin specificus ("constituting a kind or species"), the word evolved through French spécifique to emphasize precision. The root spec- (observation) and -ific (creation) combine to convey "clearly defined" or "unique to a type," mirroring its scientific and general usage.

Examples

  1. The instructions were very specific about the required materials.

  2. This tool serves a specific purpose in the laboratory.

  3. Each species has specific traits that distinguish it from others.

  4. She gave a specific example to clarify her point.

  5. The contract includes specific terms to avoid misunderstandings.