What is specify? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of specify

specifyverb

/ˈspesɪfaɪ//ˈspesɪfaɪ/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "specify." It can be tricky for English learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Sound Breakdown:

  • "spe-": This part sounds like "spew" - like you're spitting something out. It’s a short, sharp "sp" sound. Think of the word "spec" (as in special).
  • "-ci-": This part is similar to the "si" in "sister."
  • "-fy": This is where it gets a little trickier. It’s pronounced like "fee."

2. Putting it Together:

So, you say it roughly like: "spee-si-fy"

3. Emphasis:

The emphasis is on the first syllable: "spee-"

4. Here's a helpful breakdown with mouth movements:

  • "spew": Purse your lips slightly and push air out quickly.
  • "si": Make a slight "s" sound with your tongue.
  • "fee": Shape your mouth like you're saying "fee" (as in a fee you pay).

5. Listen to Examples:

Tips for Practicing:

  • Slow it down: Don't try to say it quickly at first. Focus on each syllable.
  • Record yourself: Record yourself saying the word and compare it to the examples above.
  • Repeat, repeat, repeat: The more you say it, the more natural it will feel.

Do you want me to:

  • Break down any specific part of the pronunciation further?
  • Give you some example sentences using the word "specify"?

Usage and examples with the word specify in English

Let's break down how to use the word "specify" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances, but generally, it means to state something clearly and precisely. Here's a breakdown with examples:

1. To State Clearly & Precisely:

  • Core Meaning: This is the most common use. "Specify" means to give details or a precise definition of something. You’re being asked to make something clear and unambiguous.

    • Example: “Please specify the exact date you need the report by.” (You’re asking for a precise date, not just “soon”.)
    • Example: “The contract requires you to specify the quantity of materials.” (You need a number, not just a general idea.)
    • Example: “The doctor asked me to specify my symptoms.” (You needed to list what was bothering you, not just say “I feel unwell.”)

2. To Indicate or Designate:

  • Meaning: To point out or identify something in a particular way.

    • Example: “The instructions specify the use of a Phillips head screwdriver.” (The instructions are designating which screwdriver to use.)
    • Example: “The guidelines specify the required format for all submissions.” (The guidelines are outlining how things should be done.)

3. In Formal Writing & Requests:

  • Often used in official contexts: You'll frequently find "specify" in legal documents, contracts, and requests for information. It’s a more formal than simply "state" or "tell."

    • Example: "To specify the terms of payment, please refer to Section 3.2 of the agreement."

4. Phrases with "Specify":

  • Specify something to someone: "I need to specify this clearly to you."
  • Specify details: "Can you specify the details of the project?"
  • Specify a requirement: "The grant application specifies a requirement for a detailed budget."

Here's a comparison to similar words to help you understand the subtle differences:

Word Meaning Example
State To declare or express “State your name.”
Describe To give details about something “Describe the problem in detail.”
Indicate To show or point out “The sign indicates the exit.”
Define To give a clear meaning or explanation “Define the term ‘algorithm’.”
Specify To state precisely; designate “Specify the amount of money.”

Tips for Using "Specify" Correctly:

  • Be Precise: “Specify” is all about clarity and exactness.
  • Context Matters: Pay attention to the situation and the kind of information being requested.
  • Avoid Vagueness: Don’t just say “tell me.” Say “specify” to get a detailed response.

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What context are you thinking about when you want to use "specify"? (e.g., a work email, a conversation, a piece of writing?)

Synonyms for the word specify

Practice with vocabulary specify

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Before purchasing, customers should carefully read the product description to ______ the exact features included.
  2. The project manager asked the team to ______ on the key challenges they anticipate, rather than just listing them.
  3. The contract clearly ______ the terms and conditions for early termination.
  4. Please ______ your full name and contact information on the sign-up sheet.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following verbs best conveys the act of stating something precisely and in detail, especially a requirement or condition? a) describe b) illustrate c) specify d) suggest

  2. The project brief asked us to ______ the project's overall goals, but not to go into excessive detail about each step. a) specify b) outline c) clarify d) elaborate on

  3. When placing an order, customers must ______ the preferred delivery date and any special instructions. a) state b) provide c) specify d) indicate

  4. The company needs to ______ a comprehensive plan for improving customer satisfaction. a) develop b) conceptualize c) devise d) invent

  5. It is essential to ______ the exact components required for the new software installation. a) itemize b) detail c) specify d) list

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: Make sure you tell us precisely what you need in terms of technical support. Rewrite: (Start with "Please...")

  2. Original: The legal document outlines all the conditions that must be met for the agreement to be valid. Rewrite: (Start with "The legal document...")

  3. Original: Could you clearly explain the different phases of the project? Rewrite: (Start with "Could you...")

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. specify
  2. elaborate
  3. specifies
  4. state / provide

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) specify
  2. b) outline
  3. a) state, b) provide, c) specify, d) indicate (All are correct in this context.)
  4. a) develop, b) conceptualize, c) devise
  5. a) itemize, b) detail, c) specify, d) list (All are correct in this context.)

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Please specify your exact requirements for technical support.
  2. The legal document specifies all the conditions that must be met for the agreement to be valid.
  3. Could you outline the different phases of the project?

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