specifically

adverb

spe·​cif·​i·​cal·​ly spi-ˈsi-fi-k(ə-)lē 

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

Synonyms

• especially
• particularly
• notably
• specially

Examples of specifically in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Then, in 2021, Texas further restricted the right to vote with SB1, a draconian bill that specifically targeted voting methods disproportionately used by working communities and communities of color. —Martin Luther King, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 Aug. 2025

Investigators now believe the woman who was shot and killed Aug. 13 in the Russell neighborhood was specifically targeted in the attack, Louisville Metro Police officials said during an Aug. 15 news conference. —Caroline Neal, Louisville Courier Journal, 15 Aug. 2025

That's also when Chmura denied the prosecution's motion to exclude evidence, specifically the 0.198 blood-alcohol level of the driver of the Durango, Hayden, which is more than twice the legal limit for a driver in Michigan. —Christina Hall, Freep.com, 15 Aug. 2025

The leading consumer product is called Image (in its original form that was developed specifically for nutsedge). —Neil Sperry, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for specifically

• prolifically
• terrifically