specification
C1Formal, Technical, Business
Definition
Meaning
A detailed, precise description of the requirements, dimensions, materials, or standards for something to be designed, built, or purchased.
In computing, a formal description of a system's behaviour or interface. In law, a detailed statement of particulars in a patent application.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily a countable noun. Implies a level of detail and authority, often serving as a binding document. Contrast with 'description' (more general) or 'requirement' (more focused on a single need).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Minimal. Slight preference for 'spec' as an informal shortening in technical US contexts.
Connotations
Neutral and technical in both. In UK procurement contexts, it is a core, formal document.
Frequency
Equally frequent in technical and business registers in both variants.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
specification for [noun]specification of [noun]specification that [clause]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “to be built/manufactured to specification”
- “to fall short of the specification”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
The tender document includes a detailed specification for the new office furniture.
Academic
The research methodology must adhere to the specification laid out in the ethics proposal.
Everyday
When buying a new kitchen, you need to give the fitter a clear specification of what you want.
Technical
The API specification defines how different software components should interact.
Examples
By Part of Speech
noun
British English
- The architect drew up the specification for the loft conversion.
- Does this laptop match the required specification?
American English
- The contractor didn't follow the building specifications.
- The phone's technical specs are impressive.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The job specification lists the skills you need.
- Please read the product specification before you buy it.
- The software failed because it did not meet the client's exact specifications.
- The tender was awarded to the company whose proposal most closely aligned with the stringent technical specifications.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of SPECIFIC + ACTION. A specification is the action of making something very specific.
Conceptual Metaphor
A SPECIFICATION IS A MAP (it provides a detailed plan to follow).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Не путать с 'спецификацией' в узком техническом смысле; в английском слово шире. Избегать кальки 'специфирование'.
- Прямой перевод 'технические условия' (TU) часто соответствует 'technical specification'.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'specification' as an uncountable noun (e.g., 'We need more specification' is wrong; use 'more detail' or 'a more detailed specification').
- Confusing 'specification' (the document) with 'specifics' (the individual details).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the LEAST likely context for the word 'specification'?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Primarily countable (e.g., 'a specification', 'the specifications'). It is rarely used as an uncountable mass noun.
A 'requirement' states a need (e.g., 'must be waterproof'). A 'specification' is the detailed description that fulfills that need (e.g., 'IP67 waterproof rating'). Specifications often contain multiple requirements.
The short form 'spec' is common in informal technical and business communication (e.g., 'check the specs'). It is generally avoided in very formal legal or academic documents, where 'specification(s)' is preferred.
A detailed description of the duties, responsibilities, skills, and qualifications required for a particular job role. It is often synonymous with 'job description'.
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