specifically
specifically Lexical Profile
specifically Game Scores & Validity
• adverb
In a way that is exact, clear, and detailed, without vagueness or ambiguity.
"The professor specifically instructed the students to cite at least three primary sources in their essays."
For a particular, exclusive purpose, person, or situation.
"This ergonomic keyboard was designed specifically for writers who spend long hours typing."
In regard to a biological species or characteristic.
"Although the two shorebirds appear similar at a distance, they remain specifically distinct."
Word Nuance & Usage
'Specifically' emphasizes precision or exact identification ("The rule applies specifically to first-year students"), whereas 'especially' highlights one prominent example above others ("She loves history, especially ancient Rome").
• Rhymes for specifically
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in the early 17th century from the adjective 'specific' plus the adverbial suffix '-ally', ultimately tracing back to Late Latin 'specificus' ('constituting a kind or class'), from Latin 'species' ('kind, sort, appearance').