C1noun 3K

Specification

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˌspesɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˌspesɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/"]/

Meaning of Specification

a detailed description of how something is, or should be, designed or made

In simple words: A detailed description of something's features or requirements.

Specification in a sentence

• the technical specifications of the new model *(= of car)*
• The house has been built exactly **to our specifications**.
• The office was furnished **to a high specification**.
• The aircraft have to meet the strict specifications laid down by the FAA.
• The manager has drafted job specifications for each of the positions.
• The prototype has the same basic specifications.
• The yachts are built to the highest specifications.

How to use Specification

Use 'specification' in formal contexts like contracts or technical documents. Avoid in casual conversations. It's more appropriate for discussions focused on details.

Grammar pattern

specification + of/about + object

Memory hint

Think of 'spec' as in special — special details about something.

Related words

Collocations with Specification

• complete
• detailed
• full
• develop
• draw up
• write
• according to the/​your specifications
• to the/​your specifications

Synonyms for Specification

• requirement
• description
• detail
• directive
• criterion

Opposites of Specification

• vagueness
• ambiguity
• generalization

Common mistakes with Specification

• Confused with 'specifically' — they have different uses.
• Using it in informal contexts where simpler words work better.
• Mistaking it for 'speculation' which means guessing.

Frequently asked questions about Specification

What does Specification mean?

A detailed description of something's features or requirements.

What is the definition of Specification?

a detailed description of how something is, or should be, designed or made

How do you use Specification in a sentence?

the technical specifications of the new model *(= of car)*

Can you give another example of Specification?

The house has been built exactly **to our specifications**.

What are synonyms for Specification?

Common alternatives include requirement, description, detail, directive, criterion.

What is the opposite of Specification?

Opposite meanings include vagueness, ambiguity, generalization.

What words go with Specification?

It commonly pairs with complete, detailed, full, develop, draw up, write, according to the/​your specifications, to the/​your specifications.

What are common mistakes when using Specification?

Confused with 'specifically' — they have different uses. Using it in informal contexts where simpler words work better. Mistaking it for 'speculation' which means guessing.

How do you pronounce Specification?

US: /["/ˌspesɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/"]/, UK: /["/ˌspesɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Specification?

Use 'specification' in formal contexts like contracts or technical documents. Avoid in casual conversations. It's more appropriate for discussions focused on details.

What CEFR level is Specification?

"Specification" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.