Meaning & use

specify

verb·Academic

To state something clearly and precisely, especially as part of a plan, requirement, or instruction.

See it in a sentence

The contract specifies that payment is due within thirty days of delivery.

Please specify your seat preference when you book the flight online.

A note on using this word

Specify is often followed by a that-clause or a noun phrase naming the exact requirement, unlike the vaguer verb mention.

Words with a similar meaning

statestipulateindicate

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Make it your own

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