specify

Everyday

1. To say or write something clearly and exactly: specify the date. tree →
2. (formal) To state as a rule or requirement. tree →

In the lessons

In formal exams and maths, «specify the units» or «unless otherwise specified» means unless stated exactly. In everyday instructions, «please specify your size». Phrases: specify exactly, unless otherwise specified.

Examples

• Please specify your shoe size. tree →
• The recipe doesn't specify how much salt. tree →
• Unless otherwise specified, give answers in cm. tree →
• She specified that she wanted blue. tree →
• The rules specify a maximum of six players. tree →
• Can you specify what you mean? tree →

Note

Past: specified (y to i). Noun: specification; adjective: specific. Formal; in speech say «say exactly». Maths: if a problem specifies units, give the answer in those units.