What is specific? Pronunciation and usage in English

specific means . Learn how to pronounce and use specific through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of specific

specificadjective

/spɪˈsɪfɪk/
Definition & pronunciation of specific

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "specific" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Core Sound:

  • "sp" - This is pronounced like the "sp" in "speak" or "spirit." It's a single, quick dipthong (a blending of two vowel sounds).
  • "ee" - This is a long "e" sound, like in "see" or "tree."

2. The Trickiest Part: The "c" and "i"

This is where most people stumble. Here's the breakdown:

  • "c" - The "c" in "specific" is not pronounced like the "c" in "cat." Instead, it's pronounced as a soft "s" sound - almost like the "s" in "sun." This is important!
  • "i" - The "i" is pronounced like the "i" in "bit" or "sit."

3. Putting It All Together:

The entire word is pronounced something like: "spee-sih-fik"

Let's break it down with a syllable emphasis:

  • spee (like "spew") – emphasis on this first syllable
  • sih (like "sit") – emphasis on this second syllable
  • fik (like "fix") – emphasis on this last syllable

Tips for Pronunciation:

  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to learn is to hear it. You can find audio examples on:

  • Slow it down: Don't try to say it perfectly right away. Practice the individual sounds first, then blend them together slowly.

  • Record yourself: Record yourself saying the word and compare it to a native speaker's pronunciation.

Resources:

  • YouTube pronunciation guides: Search “how to pronounce specific” on YouTube. You’ll find many helpful videos demonstrating the correct pronunciation.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you other words with similar pronunciation challenges?

Usage and examples with the word specific in English

Let's break down how to use the word "specific" in English. It's a versatile word with several nuances. Here's a breakdown of its meanings and how to use it in different contexts:

1. As an Adjective – Meaning Precise and Detailed

This is the most common use of "specific." It means clearly defined and not vague. It emphasizes detail and accuracy.

  • Example: "I need a specific date for the meeting." (Not just "a date," but which date.)
  • Example: "Please provide a specific example." (Don't give a general illustration, give a precise one.)
  • Example: "The doctor gave me a specific diagnosis." (Not a general illness, but a particular condition.)
  • Example: "The instructions were quite specific." (They left no room for interpretation.)

2. As an Adjective – Meaning Particular or Distinct

This meaning focuses on something being different or belonging to a particular group.

  • Example: "I'm interested in specific types of flowers." (Not just flowers in general, but certain kinds.)
  • Example: "She has a specific talent for playing the piano." (She’s uniquely good at that instrument.)
  • Example: "He has a specific set of rules he follows." (He doesn't just have rules, but certain rules.)

3. As an Adverb – Meaning Clearly Defined or Particular

Less common, but still used. It modifies a verb, describing how something is done.

  • Example: "Please explain your reasoning specifically." (Be precise in your explanation.)
  • Example: "I need to address this issue specifically." (Don't just say “this issue,” identify it precisely.)

Here’s a comparison to similar words (and when you might use each):

  • Detailed: Focuses on having many parts or features. (e.g., "a detailed report")
  • Precise: Focuses on accuracy and exactness. (e.g., "a precise measurement")
  • Particular: Focuses on being distinct or individual. (e.g., "a particular request")
  • Concrete: Focuses on being tangible and real. (e.g., "a concrete plan")

Tips for Using "Specific" Effectively:

  • Contrast with 'General': “Specific” is often used in opposition to “general” or “vague.” If you're looking for detail, you want something specific.
  • Ask Yourself: When you’re considering using “specific,” ask yourself, “Am I trying to avoid ambiguity? Am I trying to pinpoint something exactly?”

Let’s practice! Could you give me a sentence where you’d use the word "specific"? Or, would you like me to give you some exercises to test your understanding?

Synonyms for the word specific

Practice with vocabulary specific

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The research proposal requires a __________ methodology section outlining the exact steps.
  2. For the experiment to be replicable, all measurements must be extremely __________.
  3. Could you provide __________ examples of the issues you encountered with the software?
  4. The feedback was too __________ to be useful; we need actionable points for improvement.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following describes information that is clearly defined and focused on a particular item or area? a) broad b) vague c) specific d) general

  2. To achieve a successful outcome, the project brief must contain __________ goals and deliverables. a) ambiguous b) distinct c) obscure d) specific

  3. When giving instructions, it's best to be __________ rather than leaving room for misinterpretation. a) generic b) abstract c) explicit d) specific

  4. The CEO's address offered a __________ vision for the company's future, inspiring confidence among employees. a) hazy b) clear c) indefinite d) precise

  5. The witness gave a very __________ account of the incident, recalling every small detail. a) general b) comprehensive c) summary d) superficial

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The scientist was interested in only one kind of bacteria for her study. Rewrite the sentence, using "specific" or a related word form.

  2. They asked for a detailed explanation of the new policy, mentioning the exact benefits for employees. Rewrite the sentence, using "specific" or a related word form.

  3. The instructions for assembling the device were very clear and left no room for doubt. Rewrite the sentence, without using "specific" or any of its related word forms.

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. specific
  2. precise
  3. specific
  4. general

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) specific
  2. b) distinct, d) specific
  3. c) explicit, d) specific
  4. b) clear, d) precise
  5. b) comprehensive

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The scientist was interested in only a specific kind of bacteria for her study.
  2. They asked for a specific explanation of the new policy, specifying the exact benefits for employees.
  3. The instructions for assembling the device were extremely precise and left no room for doubt.

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