Synonyms of specific

specific 1 of 2

adjective

spi-ˈsi-fik 

1

as in special

of a particular or exact sort

we need a specific type of pen to sign the diplomas

Synonyms & Similar Words

• special
• precise
• distinct
• sole
• specialized
• express
• concrete
• peculiar
• set
• single
• only
• individual
• distinctive
• especial
• unique
• limited
• separate
• restricted
• solitary
• exclusive
• specified
• lone
• differentiated
• given

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• nonspecific
• general
• generic
• generalized
• universal
• nonexclusive

2

as in explicit

so clearly expressed as to leave no doubt about the meaning

specific instructions regarding the interrogation of prisoners

Synonyms & Similar Words

• explicit
• definite
• express
• definitive
• unmistakable
• comprehensive
• unambiguous
• literal
• unequivocal
• complete
• specified
• precise
• clear-cut
• simple
• full
• univocal
• certain
• comprehensible
• stated
• clear
• distinct
• categorical
• exact
• exhaustive
• avowed
• direct
• sure
• understandable
• well-defined
• declared
• lucid
• intelligible
• straightforward
• plain

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• implicit
• inferred
• implied
• obscure
• unclear
• dark
• ambiguous
• cryptic
• enigmatic
• incorrect
• vague
• inaccurate
• imprecise
• circuitous
• inexact
• indefinite
• incomprehensible
• equivocal
• unintelligible
• unspecific
• inexplicit

specific

2 of 2

noun

1

as in fact

a single piece of information

although the speech was long on rhetoric and platitudinous generalities, it lacked specifics

Synonyms & Similar Words

• fact
• detail
• particular
• article
• item
• element
• particularity
• point
• part
• datum
• information
• factor
• component
• nicety
• aspect
• circumstance
• ingredient
• evidence
• member
• constituent
• knowledge
• facet
• database
• exhibit

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• error
• myth
• misconception
• fallacy
• falsehood
• inaccuracy
• misstatement

2

as in characteristic

something that sets apart an individual from others of the same kind

the two submissions differ only in certain specifics

Synonyms & Similar Words

• characteristic
• feature
• quality
• attribute
• trait
• attribution
• criterion
• property
• hallmark
• mark
• particularity
• marker
• peculiarity
• touch
• character
• indication
• affection
• fingerprint
• stamp
• point
• diagnostic
• note
• symbol
• differentia
• sign
• token
• emblem
• merit
• virtue
• badge
• excellence
• uniqueness
• grace
• charm
• individuality
• idiosyncrasy
• quirk
• eccentricity
• singularity
• oddity

3

as in drug

a substance or preparation used to treat disease

quinine is a specific for malaria

Synonyms & Similar Words

• drug
• remedy
• medication
• medicine
• cure
• medicinal
• prescription
• physic
• pharmaceutical
• medicament
• antibiotic
• pill
• potion
• botanical
• prescription drug
• tonic
• wonder drug
• panacea
• injection
• patent medicine
• miracle drug
• serum
• nostrum
• tablet
• syrup
• cap
• cure-all
• lotion
• capsule
• ointment
• salve
• tincture
• antiseptic
• cordial
• liniment
• cathartic
• purgative
• shot
• poultice
• embrocation

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective specific differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of specific are especial, individual, particular, and special. While all these words mean "of or relating to one thing or class," specific implies a quality or character distinguishing a kind or a species.

children with specific nutritional needs

Where would especial be a reasonable alternative to specific?

The words especial and specific can be used in similar contexts, but especial may add implications of preeminence or preference.

a matter of especial importance

When can individual be used instead of specific?

While the synonyms individual and specific are close in meaning, individual implies unequivocal reference to one of a class or group.

valued each individual opinion

When could particular be used to replace specific?

The synonyms particular and specific are sometimes interchangeable, but particular stresses the distinctness of something as an individual.

a ballet step of particular difficulty

When is it sensible to use special instead of specific?

In some situations, the words special and specific are roughly equivalent. However, special stresses having a quality, character, identity, or use of its own.

special ingredients

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of specific

Adjective

What Burnside aspires toward instead is an expression of the place’s spiritual core, some evocation of a regionally specific truth that might explain the percolating rottenness. — Literary Hub, 1 Oct. 2026

Acupressure targets specific points, including spots roughly a finger’s length below your pupils and beside your nose, which NuFace says can promote a glowing complexion by improving circulation. — Samantha Agate, Kansas City Star, 1 Oct. 2026

Noun

An employee at the Mallard Pointe store in University City told CharlotteFive that its workers will likely be transferred to other locations but couldn’t offer specifics on where. — Tanasia Kenney, Charlotte Observer, 25 Sep. 2026

Flashpoints While more details about the meeting are expected to be released in the days to come, specifics are scant so far. — Kai Nicol-Schwarz,arjun Kharpal, CNBC, 25 Sep. 2026