Define vs. Specify — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 22, 2024
Define involves explaining the meaning of a word or concept, focusing on its essence and scope, while specify means providing detailed information or stipulations.
Difference Between Define and Specify
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
When you define something, you describe its meaning, usually in a broad or abstract way, giving a general understanding of a term or concept. Whereas specify involves stating something in detail, often providing explicit information or particular requirements.
Define aims at clarity and understanding of a concept's boundaries and implications, typically used in general descriptions or academic settings. On the other hand, specify is crucial in contexts where precision and exactness are needed, such as in instructions or legal documents.
Define often utilizes synonyms or broader categorizations to convey the essence of a term. Conversely, specify usually lists attributes, conditions, or elements to narrow down specifics.
Define sets the foundation for a term's broad understanding, which is vital in learning and communication. Whereas specify builds on this foundation by adding detailed criteria that tailor the understanding to specific needs or contexts.
Define and specify both play crucial roles in communication but are used differently depending on the need for general explanation or specific detail.
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Comparison Chart
Purpose
To explain the meaning of words or concepts.
To detail particular details or requirements.
Usage
Broader explanations in education, discussion.
Detailed instructions in technical, legal texts.
Nature
General and abstract.
Precise and detailed.
Outcome
Broad understanding.
Clear, specific instructions or conditions.
Example Context
Defining a scientific term in a textbook.
Specifying terms in a contract.
Compare with Definitions
Define
To state the meaning of a word or phrase.
Dictionaries define words so we understand them better.
Specify
To designate particular items in a broader category.
Please specify which chapters we need to read for the exam.
Define
To mark out the boundary or scope of something.
The role of the committee is clearly defined in the bylaws.
Specify
To identify clearly or explicitly.
The contract specifies the obligations of each party.
Define
To explain the nature or basic qualities of something.
The lecture will define the key concepts of philosophy.
Specify
To state a fact or requirement clearly and precisely.
The designer specified the dimensions of the bookshelf.
Define
To make something definite, clear, or detailed.
The goals of the project need to be defined early in the process.
Specify
To determine or stipulate in a document.
The terms were specified in the agreement.
Define
To specify distinctly.
She defined her position on the matter very clearly.
Specify
To state explicitly or in detail
Specified the amount needed.
Specified what was wrong with the program.
Define
State or describe exactly the nature, scope, or meaning of
The contract will seek to define the client's obligations
Specify
To include in a specification.
Define
Mark out the boundary or limits of
The river defines the park's boundary
Specify
To determine or bring about (a specific result)
A gene that specifies the synthesis of a single protein.
Define
To state the precise meaning of (a word or sense of a word, for example).
Specify
(transitive) To state explicitly, or in detail, or as a condition.
Define
To describe the nature or basic qualities of; explain
Define the properties of a new drug.
A study that defines people according to their median incomes.
Specify
(transitive) To include in a specification.
Define
To make clear the outline or form of; delineate
Gentle hills that were defined against the sky.
Specify
(transitive) To bring about a specific result.
Define
To specify distinctly
Define the weapons to be used in limited warfare.
Specify
To speak explicitly or in detail (often used with of).
Define
To give form or meaning to
"For him, a life is defined by action" (Jay Parini).
Specify
To mention or name, as a particular thing; to designate in words so as to distinguish from other things; as, to specify the uses of a plant; to specify articles purchased.
He has there given us an exact geography of Greece, where the countries and the uses of their soils are specified.
Define
To make or write a definition.
Specify
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
Define
To determine with precision; to mark out with distinctness; to ascertain or exhibit clearly.
The defining power of an optical instrument
Specify
Determine the essential quality of
Define
(obsolete) To settle, decide an argument etc.
Specify
Decide upon or fix definitely;
Fix the variables
Specify the parameters
Define
To express the essential nature of something.
I define myself as a techno-anarchist.
Your past mistakes do not define who you are.
Specify
Be specific about;
Could you please specify your criticism of my paper?
Define
To state the meaning of a word, phrase, sign, or symbol.
The textbook defined speed as velocity divided by time.
Specify
Define clearly;
I cannot narrow down the rules for this game
Define
To describe, explain, or make definite and clear; used to request the listener or other person to elaborate or explain more clearly his or her intended meaning of a word or expression.
Person 1: Is she good at math?
Person 2: Define "good." If you mean if she is faster than the average middle schooler at multiplication, then yes. If you mean if she is able to do multivariable calculus, then no.
Person 2: Define "good." If you mean if she is faster than the average middle schooler at multiplication, then yes. If you mean if she is able to do multivariable calculus, then no.
Specify
Design or destine;
She was intended to become the director
Define
To demark sharply the outlines or limits of an area or concept.
To define the legal boundaries of a property
Define
(mathematics) To establish the referent of a term or notation.
Define
(programming) A kind of macro in source code that replaces one text string with another wherever it occurs.
Define
To fix the bounds of; to bring to a termination; to end.
Define
To determine or clearly exhibit the boundaries of; to mark the limits of; as, to define the extent of a kingdom or country.
Define
To determine with precision; to mark out with distinctness; to ascertain or exhibit clearly; as, the defining power of an optical instrument.
Rings . . . very distinct and well defined.
Define
To determine the precise signification of; to fix the meaning of; to describe accurately; to explain; to expound or interpret; as, to define a word, a phrase, or a scientific term.
They define virtue to be life ordered according to nature.
Define
To determine; to decide.
Define
Give a definition for the meaning of a word;
Define `sadness'
Define
Determine the essential quality of
Define
Determine the nature of;
What defines a good wine?
Define
Delineate the form or outline of;
The tree was clearly defined by the light
The camera could define the smallest object
Common Curiosities
What does it mean to define a word?
Defining a word means stating its meaning, often using simpler words to explain it.
How is specifying different from generalizing?
Specifying gives precise details, whereas generalizing provides a broad overview.
Why is it important to define terms in academic writing?
It ensures clarity and that readers understand the concepts being discussed.
What is an example of specifying in a technical document?
Detailing software requirements in a user manual is an example of specifying.
Is specifying more important in contracts or theoretical discussions?
In contracts, where precise conditions and obligations need clear detailing.
Is defining more related to theory or practice?
Defining is more related to theory as it provides conceptual understanding.
In what scenario might you define and specify simultaneously?
When introducing a new, complex concept that also needs detailed application explained.
Can you specify without defining?
Yes, specifying often involves adding details to an already understood or defined concept.
How do definitions aid in learning?
They provide the fundamental understanding necessary to build further knowledge.
How can failing to specify details lead to issues?
It can lead to misunderstandings and gaps in expectations between parties.
How do dictionaries typically define words?
Dictionaries provide meanings, word origins, and examples of usage.
What does it mean to specify conditions in an agreement?
It means to list and explain the conditions under which an agreement is valid.
Can you specify something too much?
Yes, overly detailed specifications can sometimes lead to confusion or inefficiency.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
