Specify Definition & Meaning

specify
verb
  1. specify as a condition or requirement in a contract or agreement; make an express demand or provision in an agreement; "The will stipulates that she can live in the house for the rest of her life"; "The contract stipulates the dates of the payments"
  2. decide upon or fix definitely; "fix the variables"; "specify the parameters"
  3. determine the essential quality of
  4. be specific about; "Could you please specify your criticism of my paper?"
  5. define clearly; "I cannot narrow down the rules for this game"
  6. design or destine; "She was intended to become the director"
  7. select something or someone for a specific purpose; "The teacher assigned him to lead his classmates in the exercise"

"Specify" in song lyrics

See how specify is used in real songs:

  • "What does it cost to live? Why do they specify?"
    Mumia 911 f/ Aceyalone, Afu-Ra, Black Thought, Channel Live, — Mumia 911 (Rocks the World Full Length Mix)

Usage tips for "specify"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "specify" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for specify to find words that pair well.

Use "specify" in a verse

Now that you know what "specify" means, try using it in your own lyrics:

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