B2verbformalbusinessacademic
US/ˈspes.ə.faɪ/
UK/ˈspes.ɪ.faɪ/
to say or state something clearly and exactly, especially what is needed or must be done
In context
Please specify your dietary needs when you book the tickets.
The contract specifies that payment must be made within thirty days.
He did not specify which day he would arrive, so we waited all week.
Words that go with specify
verb + noun
- specify a dateYou must specify a date for the meeting.
- specify requirementsThe client must specify the requirements in advance.
adverb + verb
- unless otherwise specifiedUse black ink unless otherwise specified.
- clearly specifyThe rules clearly specify who can vote.
verb + preposition
- specify in writingThe terms must be specified in writing.
- fail to specifyThe report fails to specify how the money was spent.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
The rules specify to wear a helmet.Correct: The rules specify that you must wear a helmet.