Reading Theme:
Specification: Definition, Usage & Examples (3 meaning)
Meaning 1：detailed requirement list (specification)
specification
/ˌspesɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/
n.
A detailed list of features or requirements that something must have or meet.
detailed requirement list
➕
/ˈdiːteɪld rɪˈkwaɪəmənt lɪst/
n.
A formal, itemized document that defines the features, functions, and requirements for a project or product.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'specificare' (to mention, point out), from 'species' (kind) + 'facere' (to make).
💡 Mnemonic
Think of a SPECIal list that IDentIFies every feature. SPEC-IF-ICATION.
📖 Example
Before we start building the website, the client gave us a clear specification document listing all the features they need.
The project manager reviewed the software specification to ensure all user stories were covered.
🔗 Collocations
technical specification – a detailed document outlining the technical requirements of a system or component.
write a specification – to draft a formal document detailing requirements.
project specification – the detailed requirements document for a particular project.
🔄 Synonyms
requirement (n.) – a thing that is needed or wanted, often less formal than a specification.
criterion (n.) – a standard or principle by which something is judged or decided.
stipulation (n.) – a condition or requirement that is specified as part of an agreement.
🚫 Antonyms
vagueness (n.) – lack of clarity or precision in details.
generality (n.) – a statement or principle that is not specific or detailed.
🌱 Derivatives
📖 Cultural Story
The word entered English in the late 16th century via French, from the Late Latin 'specification-', meaning 'a describing'. It gained prominence during the Industrial Revolution with the need for precise technical descriptions and standardized parts in manufacturing.
Meaning 2：product detail sheet (specification)
specification
/ˌspesɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/
n.
The official, measurable details about a product's features, like size, speed, or materials.
product detail sheet
➕
/ˈprɒdʌkt ˈdiːteɪl ʃiːt/
n.
The measurable, technical details that define a product's capabilities, components, and performance.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
When comparing cameras, pay close attention to the specification for battery life and image sensor size.
I checked the laptop's specification to confirm it had enough memory for my video editing software.
🔗 Collocations
product specification – the official list of a product's technical features and details.
hardware specification – the detailed technical description of computer hardware components.
check the specifications – to examine the technical details of a product before purchase.
🔄 Synonyms
specs (n. (pl.)) – an informal abbreviation for specifications.
details (n. (pl.)) – individual facts or pieces of information.
parameters (n. (pl.)) – limits or boundaries that define the scope of something.
🚫 Antonyms
overview (n.) – a general review or summary of a subject.
🌱 Derivatives
spec (n. (informal)) – short for specification.
Meaning 3：official standard (specification)
specification
/ˌspesɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/
n.
An official set of detailed rules and standards that must be followed in areas like construction or food safety.
official standard
➕
/əˈfɪʃl ˈstændəd/
n.
An authoritative, often legally binding, set of detailed rules, measurements, or standards that must be adhered to.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
All the building materials used in this school must comply with the strict safety specifications set by the government.
The pharmaceutical company must follow the exact specifications for drug purity outlined by the health authority.
🔗 Collocations
safety specification – official standards detailing safety requirements for equipment or structures.
comply with specifications – to act in accordance with the official standards or requirements.
industry specification – a standard established and recognized within a particular industry.
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
deviation (n.) – the action of departing from an established course or standard.
noncompliance (n.) – failure or refusal to comply with a rule or standard.
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