At the A1 level, you are just starting to learn how to describe things and actions. 'Spécifiquement' might seem like a long and difficult word, but you can think of it as a fancy way to say 'just' or 'only for this.' While you probably won't use it much in your first few weeks of French, you might see it on signs or in simple instructions. For example, if a toy is 'spécifiquement pour les bébés,' it means it is made just for babies. It is an adverb, which means it adds more information to a verb (an action word). In English, we often put 'specifically' before the verb, but in French, we usually put it after. Try to remember that it starts with 'spécifique' (like specific) and ends with '-ment' (like -ly in English). Even if you don't say it yet, recognizing it will help you understand that someone is talking about one special thing instead of everything in general.
At the A2 level, you are beginning to use more descriptive language to talk about your needs and preferences. 'Spécifiquement' is a great word to use when you want to be very clear. Imagine you are at a restaurant and you want a dish made in a certain way. You could say, 'Je veux ce plat, mais spécifiquement sans oignons.' This tells the waiter that the 'no onions' part is very important. You are moving beyond simple sentences and starting to connect ideas. 'Spécifiquement' helps you narrow down your choices. You should also start noticing where the word is placed in a sentence. Usually, it comes after the verb: 'Il travaille spécifiquement ici.' If you use the past tense (passé composé), it often goes in the middle: 'J'ai spécifiquement choisi ce livre.' It's a bit of a 'long' word, so practice saying it slowly: spe-ci-fi-que-ment. It's a very useful word for making sure people understand exactly what you want.
As a B1 learner, you are expected to handle everyday situations with more precision. 'Spécifiquement' becomes a tool for clarification and emphasis. You can use it to distinguish between two similar things or to explain a particular requirement. For instance, in a job interview, you might say, 'Je cherche un poste spécifiquement dans le domaine du marketing.' This shows that you aren't just looking for any job, but a very particular type. At this level, you should also be aware of synonyms like 'en particulier' or 'surtout,' which might be easier to use in casual conversation. However, 'spécifiquement' adds a touch of professionalism to your speech. You should also be careful not to confuse it with 'précisément,' which is more about being 'exact' with times and numbers. Practice using it to refine your opinions and requests, making your French sound more intentional and less like a direct translation from English.
At the B2 level, 'spécifiquement' is a word you should be using comfortably in both writing and speaking. It is essential for the 'argumentative' style required at this level. When you are writing an essay or participating in a debate, 'spécifiquement' allows you to focus your argument on a specific point. For example: 'Nous devons examiner spécifiquement l'impact écologique de cette décision.' This signals to your audience that you are narrowing the discussion to a crucial detail. You should also be familiar with how 'spécifiquement' functions in complex sentences and compound tenses. You are now able to distinguish between 'spécifiquement' (intended for/focusing on) and its synonyms like 'notamment' (including/notably) or 'exclusivement' (only). Your goal at B2 is to sound more like a native speaker by using these adverbs to provide nuance and clarity. You should also be able to recognize the word in fast-paced audio, such as news reports or podcasts, and understand its role in defining the scope of the topic being discussed.
For C1 learners, 'spécifiquement' is part of a sophisticated vocabulary used to convey subtle distinctions in meaning. You should use it to navigate complex professional or academic environments where precision is paramount. At this level, you understand that 'spécifiquement' can imply a deliberate choice or a unique characteristic. You might use it in a literary analysis to discuss a 'style spécifiquement balzacien' or in a legal context to refer to a 'clause spécifiquement rédigée pour ce contrat.' You are also capable of using it for rhetorical effect, perhaps placing it at the beginning of a sentence to create emphasis: 'Spécifiquement, ce que nous demandons, c'est une plus grande transparence.' You should have a deep understanding of its etymology and how it relates to other words in the 'spécifique' family. Your usage should be flawless, including its placement in complex grammatical structures like the subjunctive or the conditional. You should also be able to critique the use of the word in others' writing, identifying when it is used correctly and when a synonym might have been more appropriate.
At the C2 level, you have a near-native command of 'spécifiquement.' You use it with effortless precision, often to delineate fine points of logic or to provide highly specialized information. You are aware of the stylistic weight the word carries and can use it to adjust the 'register' of your communication perfectly. In a high-level academic paper, you might use 'spécifiquement' to define the parameters of a unique methodology. In a formal speech, you might use it to pay tribute to a person's 'contribution spécifiquement remarquable.' You understand the rhythmic role adverbs play in French prose and use 'spécifiquement' to balance your sentences. At this level, you also recognize the occasional 'over-anglicization' of the word in modern French and can choose to use more traditional Gallic alternatives like 'tout particulièrement' or 'à proprement parler' when they better suit the context. Your mastery of the word is not just about knowing its definition, but about understanding its soul within the French language—how it functions as a bridge between the general abstract and the concrete particular.

spécifiquement em 30 segundos

  • Spécifiquement is an adverb meaning 'specifically' or 'in a precise manner,' used to narrow down a topic or target a particular group.
  • It is commonly used in professional, academic, and technical French to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity in descriptions or instructions.
  • Grammatically, it usually follows the verb in simple tenses and sits between the auxiliary and past participle in compound tenses.
  • While a cognate of English 'specifically,' it should be used with care to avoid sounding repetitive; synonyms like 'en particulier' are common.
The French adverb spécifiquement is a high-frequency, sophisticated term used to denote precision, exclusivity, and focused intent. At its core, it functions similarly to the English word 'specifically,' acting as a modifier that narrows the scope of an action or a description to a single, distinct point. In the landscape of French linguistics, adverbs ending in '-ment' are typically formed from the feminine form of the adjective; however, since 'spécifique' ends in an 'e', the transition to 'spécifiquement' is seamless. This word is indispensable in academic, professional, and technical discourse where ambiguity must be minimized. When a speaker uses spécifiquement, they are signaling to the listener that the information following is not general, not accidental, and not applicable to a broader category, but is instead tailored to a unique instance.
Precision
It highlights a particular detail within a larger set of data or ideas.
Exclusivity
It indicates that something is designed or intended for one purpose and no other.
Emphasis
It draws the listener's attention to a specific requirement or characteristic that might otherwise be overlooked.
Beyond its technical utility, the word carries a certain weight of authority. In administrative French, for example, a law might apply spécifiquement to a certain demographic, meaning the legal implications are restricted to that group alone. In daily conversation, while slightly formal, it is used to clarify instructions or preferences. If you tell a waiter you are allergic spécifiquement to peanuts, you are providing a life-saving distinction.

Ce médicament a été conçu spécifiquement pour traiter les migraines chroniques.

This sentence demonstrates the 'exclusivity' function—the medicine isn't for general pain; it is for migraines. Understanding the nuances of this word allows a learner to move from general communication to precise articulation. It is the difference between saying 'I like movies' and 'I like movies spécifiquement from the French New Wave era.' The word acts as a scalpel, cutting through the generalities of language to reveal the exact intent of the speaker. In business meetings, it is used to define KPIs, in science to describe experimental conditions, and in art to discuss specific techniques.

Le contrat mentionne spécifiquement que les travaux doivent être terminés avant lundi.

Grammatical Placement
Usually placed after the conjugated verb in simple tenses or between the auxiliary and the past participle in compound tenses.

Je vous appelle spécifiquement pour cette raison.

Nous avons spécifiquement choisi ce modèle pour sa durabilité.

By mastering this word, you gain the ability to provide clear, unambiguous details that are essential for B2 level fluency and beyond.
Using spécifiquement correctly involves understanding its syntactic role as an adverb of manner or degree. It modifies verbs, adjectives, or even other adverbs to provide a higher level of detail. In French, the placement of adverbs is more structured than in English. For a simple tense, such as the present or the future, 'spécifiquement' almost always follows the verb it modifies. For example, 'Il parle spécifiquement de son enfance' (He is talking specifically about his childhood). Here, the adverb provides the 'how' or 'what' regarding the action of speaking.
With Compound Tenses
In the passé composé, the adverb usually sits between the auxiliary verb (avoir/être) and the past participle. Example: 'J'ai spécifiquement demandé un café sans sucre.'
Modifying Adjectives
It precedes the adjective. Example: 'C'est un outil spécifiquement adapté aux besoins des ingénieurs.'
The word is often used in negative constructions to clarify that while something might be true in general, it is not true in a particular sense. 'Je ne parlais pas spécifiquement de toi' (I wasn't talking specifically about you) is a common way to deflect perceived personal criticism.

L'architecte a conçu ce bâtiment spécifiquement pour résister aux séismes.

In this case, the adverb emphasizes the purpose of the design. Another common usage is in the context of research or academic writing. One might say, 'Cette étude porte spécifiquement sur l'impact de l'intelligence artificielle en milieu rural.' The word anchors the study to its subject, preventing the reader from assuming a broader or different scope.

Est-ce que vous cherchez quelque chose de spécifiquement français ?

Notice here how it modifies 'français' to imply a search for something uniquely or quintessentially French.
In Comparisons
While rare, it can be used in comparative structures like 'plus spécifiquement' to refine a point further.

Nous devons aborder le problème de la pollution, et plus spécifiquement, celle des océans.

Finally, in professional emails, 'spécifiquement' is a 'power word.' It shows that you have thought deeply about a request. 'Je vous contacte spécifiquement au sujet de votre dernier article' is much more professional and engaging than a generic 'I am contacting you about your article.' It demonstrates respect for the recipient's specific work.
You will encounter spécifiquement in a variety of high-stakes environments. It is a staple of French news broadcasts (like BFMTV or France 24), especially during segments dealing with legislation, scientific breakthroughs, or economic policy. When a journalist interviews a minister, they might ask, 'Quelles mesures seront prises spécifiquement pour les petites entreprises ?' (What measures will be taken specifically for small businesses?). This usage forces the interviewee to move away from vague promises and toward concrete details. In the world of French cinema and literary criticism, you will hear it used to describe a director's style or a writer's choice of words. A critic might say that a certain film captures 'spécifiquement l'ambiance des années 60' (specifically the vibe of the 60s).
The Workplace
In meetings, it is used to assign tasks: 'Julie, tu vas t'occuper spécifiquement du marketing digital.'
Education
Professors use it to narrow down exam topics: 'Le cours de demain portera spécifiquement sur la Révolution française.'
If you visit a French doctor, they might use the term when discussing symptoms or treatments. 'Ce traitement cible spécifiquement les cellules infectées.' (This treatment specifically targets infected cells). This precision is comforting in a medical context.

La loi s'applique spécifiquement aux résidents permanents.

In the technology sector, particularly in French-speaking hubs like Montreal or Paris, 'spécifiquement' is used in software development. 'Ce bug se produit spécifiquement sur les navigateurs mobiles.' (This bug occurs specifically on mobile browsers).

Je ne parlais pas de tout le projet, mais spécifiquement du budget.

Legal Documents
Contracts often use 'spécifiquement' to exclude certain liabilities or define specific obligations.

Le témoin a spécifiquement identifié le suspect par sa cicatrice.

In summary, while you might not use it every five minutes in a casual chat over coffee, it is the 'go-to' word whenever clarity, professional rigor, or scientific accuracy is required. It is a word that builds trust by showing the speaker knows exactly what they are talking about.
One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with spécifiquement is confusing it with 'précisément' or 'particulièrement.' While they are related, they are not always interchangeable. 'Précisément' often means 'exactly' or 'precisely' in terms of time or measurement, whereas 'spécifiquement' is more about 'exclusively' or 'intended for.' If you say 'Il est arrivé spécifiquement à midi,' it sounds odd; you should say 'Il est arrivé précisément à midi.'
Overuse
Using it in every sentence can make your French sound robotic or overly 'translated' from English. Native speakers use a variety of phrases like 'en particulier' or 'notamment' to provide variety.
Placement Errors
Placing it before the verb in a simple tense (e.g., *'Je spécifiquement veux'*) is a direct carryover from English grammar and is incorrect in French.
Another mistake is the 'false friend' trap. While 'spécifiquement' is a cognate of 'specifically,' the adjective 'spécifique' can sometimes mean 'characteristic of' in a way that 'specific' doesn't always imply in English. For instance, 'un mal spécifique à cette région' means 'a disease characteristic of this region.' If you use the adverb to mean 'characteristically,' you might confuse your listener.

Faux pas : J'ai spécifiquement fini mon travail. (Correct : J'ai précisément fini mon travail / J'ai fini mon travail à l'heure.)

Learners also struggle with the pronunciation of the '-ment' suffix. It should be a nasal /mɑ̃/, not /mɛnt/ or /mɒnt/. Mispronouncing the ending can make the word unrecognizable, even if the 'spécifique' part is clear.

Erreur de sens : Il a spécifiquement raison. (Usage correct : Il a tout à fait raison.)

Spelling
Don't forget the acute accent on the first 'é'. Writing 'specifiquement' without the accent is a common spelling error for English speakers.

Confusion : C'est spécifiquement ce que je pensais. (Better : C'est exactement ce que je pensais.)

Lastly, avoid using it as a filler word. In English, we often say 'like, specifically...' when stalling for time. In French, using 'spécifiquement' as a filler sounds very unnatural. Use 'euh' or 'en fait' instead.
To sound more like a native speaker, it is essential to have a repertoire of alternatives to spécifiquement. Depending on the context, other words might convey your meaning more naturally or with a different shade of emphasis.
En particulier
This is the most common alternative. It means 'in particular' and is used in both formal and informal French. Example: 'J'aime les fruits, en particulier les fraises.'
Précisément
Used when emphasizing exactness, especially with numbers, time, or location. Example: 'Il est précisément huit heures.'
Notamment
Often translated as 'notably' or 'including,' this is used to highlight a specific example within a list. Example: 'Il a voyagé partout, notamment en Asie.'
If you want to emphasize that something is exclusive, you might use 'exclusivement' or 'uniquement.' For instance, 'Ce parking est réservé uniquement aux clients.' This sounds stronger and more restrictive than 'spécifiquement.'

Comparaison : 'Il travaille spécifiquement sur ce dossier' (He is focused on this file) vs 'Il travaille uniquement sur ce dossier' (He is working ONLY on this file).

In technical writing, you might see 'expressément,' which means 'expressly' or 'explicitly.' This is often used in legal contexts to indicate that something was stated clearly. 'Il est expressément interdit de fumer.'
Plus précisément
Use this when you have made a general statement and want to follow up with a more detailed one. It acts as a bridge between the general and the specific.

Exemple : Je cherche un livre d'histoire, plus précisément sur le Moyen Âge.

By choosing the right synonym, you can adjust the register of your speech from formal/academic (spécifiquement, notamment) to neutral (en particulier, surtout) to precise (précisément). This versatility is a hallmark of advanced language proficiency.

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The suffix '-ment' comes from the Latin word 'mente', meaning 'with a mind'. So 'spécifiquement' literally meant 'with a specific mind' in its earliest evolutionary forms.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /spe.si.fi.kə.mɑ̃/
US /speɪ.si.fi.kə.mɑ̃/
In French, the stress is generally even across syllables, but a slight emphasis is often placed on the final syllable 'mɑ̃'.
Rima com
précisément particulièrement absolument vraiement clairement lentement rapidement évidemment
Erros comuns
  • Pronouncing the 't' at the end of 'ment'.
  • Pronouncing the 'n' in 'ment' instead of making it nasal.
  • Using an English 'sh' sound for the 'c' (it should be an 's' sound).
  • Making the 'i' sounds too long like an English 'eye'.
  • Forgetting the acute accent on the first 'é' which changes the vowel quality.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 2/5

Easy to recognize because it is very similar to the English 'specifically'.

Escrita 4/5

Requires correct placement and remembering the accent on the 'é'.

Expressão oral 5/5

Long word with five syllables; the nasal ending can be tricky for beginners.

Audição 3/5

Generally clear, though can be said quickly in news broadcasts.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

spécifique ment (suffix) particulier précis seulement

Aprenda a seguir

notamment précisément exclusivement particulièrement relativement

Avançado

intrinsèquement fondamentalement explicitement implicitement concrètement

Gramática essencial

Adverb Formation from Adjectives

Spécifique -> Spécifiquement (If the adjective ends in 'e', just add -ment).

Adverb Placement with Simple Tenses

Il parle spécifiquement (The adverb follows the verb).

Adverb Placement with Compound Tenses

J'ai spécifiquement choisi (The adverb goes between auxiliary and participle).

Negative Adverbial Placement

Je ne veux pas spécifiquement cela (Adverb follows 'pas').

Adverb Modifying an Adjective

C'est spécifiquement adapté (Adverb precedes the adjective).

Exemplos por nível

1

C'est spécifiquement pour toi.

It is specifically for you.

Placement after the verb 'est'.

2

Je veux spécifiquement ce jouet.

I want specifically this toy.

Placement after the verb 'veux'.

3

C'est un livre spécifiquement pour les enfants.

It is a book specifically for children.

Modifying the prepositional phrase 'pour les enfants'.

4

Il parle spécifiquement de son chat.

He is talking specifically about his cat.

Adverb modifying the verb 'parle'.

5

Regarde spécifiquement cette image.

Look specifically at this image.

Imperative mood with the adverb following the verb.

6

Je cherche spécifiquement le pain.

I am looking specifically for the bread.

Focusing the search using the adverb.

7

C'est fait spécifiquement pour la cuisine.

It is made specifically for the kitchen.

Passive-like structure with 'fait'.

8

Elle chante spécifiquement cette chanson.

She is singing specifically this song.

Identifying a single object of the action.

1

J'ai spécifiquement demandé un thé vert.

I specifically asked for a green tea.

Placement between auxiliary and past participle.

2

Ce cours est spécifiquement pour les débutants.

This course is specifically for beginners.

Modifying the target audience.

3

Nous allons spécifiquement à Paris cet été.

We are going specifically to Paris this summer.

Adverb modifying the destination.

4

Il n'aime pas spécifiquement les films d'horreur.

He doesn't specifically like horror movies.

Negative construction 'ne... pas spécifiquement'.

5

Peux-tu m'aider spécifiquement avec ce devoir ?

Can you help me specifically with this homework?

Interrogative sentence with adverbial focus.

6

Elle a spécifiquement choisi cette robe rouge.

She specifically chose this red dress.

Passé composé with adverb placement.

7

Le menu est spécifiquement sans gluten.

The menu is specifically gluten-free.

Adverb modifying an adjective phrase.

8

Je travaille spécifiquement sur mon projet de science.

I am working specifically on my science project.

Focusing the action of working.

1

L'article traite spécifiquement des énergies renouvelables.

The article deals specifically with renewable energies.

Formal verb 'traite' followed by the adverb.

2

Je vous contacte spécifiquement pour votre annonce.

I am contacting you specifically regarding your advertisement.

Professional context usage.

3

Le logiciel a été conçu spécifiquement pour les architectes.

The software was designed specifically for architects.

Passive voice with 'été conçu'.

4

Il faut se concentrer spécifiquement sur les détails.

One must focus specifically on the details.

Infinitive construction 'se concentrer'.

5

Ce médicament agit spécifiquement sur la douleur articulaire.

This medicine acts specifically on joint pain.

Medical context/technical action.

6

Nous avons spécifiquement évité de parler de politique.

We specifically avoided talking about politics.

Compound tense with 'évité'.

7

Est-ce que tu parles de moi spécifiquement ?

Are you talking about me specifically?

Clarifying the object of a conversation.

8

Le guide mentionne spécifiquement ce petit restaurant.

The guide specifically mentions this small restaurant.

Identifying a specific reference.

1

Cette loi vise spécifiquement à réduire la pollution plastique.

This law aims specifically at reducing plastic pollution.

Verb 'vise' followed by 'spécifiquement à'.

2

L'auteur s'adresse spécifiquement à la jeunesse désabusée.

The author addresses specifically the disillusioned youth.

Pronominal verb 's'adresser à'.

3

Le budget est spécifiquement alloué à la recherche médicale.

The budget is specifically allocated to medical research.

Financial/Administrative context.

4

Il n'a pas été prouvé que ce gène soit spécifiquement lié à la maladie.

It has not been proven that this gene is specifically linked to the disease.

Subjunctive mood 'soit' after a negative 'il n'a pas été prouvé'.

5

Nous devons examiner plus spécifiquement les causes de l'inflation.

We must examine more specifically the causes of inflation.

Comparative 'plus spécifiquement'.

6

Le témoin a pu spécifiquement identifier l'heure du crime.

The witness was able to specifically identify the time of the crime.

Modal verb 'a pu' followed by infinitive.

7

Cette formation est spécifiquement adaptée aux cadres supérieurs.

This training is specifically adapted for senior executives.

Adjective 'adaptée' modified by the adverb.

8

L'étude ne portait pas spécifiquement sur ce groupe démographique.

The study did not focus specifically on this demographic group.

Imperfect tense in a negative structure.

1

Le philosophe s'interroge spécifiquement sur l'ontologie de l'être.

The philosopher questions specifically the ontology of being.

Academic/Philosophical register.

2

Spécifiquement, c'est l'absence de preuves qui a conduit à l'acquittement.

Specifically, it is the lack of evidence that led to the acquittal.

Sentence-initial placement for rhetorical emphasis.

3

Il a fallu spécifiquement calibrer les instruments pour cette expérience.

It was necessary to specifically calibrate the instruments for this experiment.

Impersonal 'il a fallu' with infinitive.

4

La critique a loué la mise en scène, et spécifiquement l'usage de la lumière.

The critics praised the staging, and specifically the use of light.

Adding a precise detail to a general praise.

5

Ce texte de loi déroge spécifiquement aux principes généraux du droit civil.

This legal text specifically derogates from the general principles of civil law.

Legal technical terminology ('déroge à').

6

L'entreprise cherche à recruter des profils spécifiquement orientés vers l'international.

The company seeks to recruit profiles specifically oriented towards the international market.

Adverb modifying a past participle used as an adjective.

7

Elle s'est spécifiquement plainte du manque de communication interne.

She specifically complained about the lack of internal communication.

Pronominal verb in passé composé.

8

Le plan de relance cible spécifiquement les secteurs sinistrés par la crise.

The recovery plan specifically targets sectors hit hard by the crisis.

Economic/Political register.

1

L'herméneutique de ce texte repose spécifiquement sur une lecture intertextuelle.

The hermeneutics of this text rests specifically on an intertextual reading.

High-level literary theory terminology.

2

Il convient de s'attarder spécifiquement sur les zones d'ombre du rapport.

It is appropriate to dwell specifically on the gray areas of the report.

Formal 'il convient de' construction.

3

La pathologie se manifeste spécifiquement par une atrophie des tissus nerveux.

The pathology manifests specifically through an atrophy of nervous tissues.

Specialized medical discourse.

4

L'accord bilatéral traite spécifiquement de l'extradition des ressortissants.

The bilateral agreement deals specifically with the extradition of nationals.

Diplomatic/Legal register.

5

On ne saurait affirmer que ce phénomène soit spécifiquement lié à l'activité humaine.

One cannot assert that this phenomenon is specifically linked to human activity.

Elegant 'on ne saurait' followed by subjunctive.

6

Le dispositif de sécurité a été spécifiquement renforcé pour le sommet.

The security arrangement was specifically reinforced for the summit.

Passive voice with adverbial emphasis.

7

L'esthétique de l'œuvre puise spécifiquement dans le folklore breton.

The aesthetics of the work draws specifically from Breton folklore.

Artistic/Cultural analysis.

8

Spécifiquement parlant, la mutation n'affecte que les chromosomes sexuels.

Specifically speaking, the mutation only affects the sex chromosomes.

Participial phrase 'Spécifiquement parlant'.

Colocações comuns

viser spécifiquement
demander spécifiquement
conçu spécifiquement
mentionner spécifiquement
plus spécifiquement
traiter spécifiquement
lié spécifiquement
adapter spécifiquement
interdire spécifiquement
rechercher spécifiquement

Frases Comuns

Pas spécifiquement.

— Not specifically/Not exactly. Used to clarify that a general statement doesn't apply in a particular way.

— Tu cherches un livre de cuisine ? — Pas spécifiquement, je regarde juste.

Plus spécifiquement...

— More specifically... Used to introduce a more detailed explanation of a previous point.

J'aime la musique, plus spécifiquement le jazz des années 50.

Spécifiquement pour...

— Specifically for... Used to indicate the intended recipient or purpose.

C'est un cadeau spécifiquement pour ta maman.

Rien de spécifiquement...

— Nothing specifically... Followed by an adjective to say nothing fits that exact description.

Je n'ai rien vu de spécifiquement suspect hier soir.

S'adresser spécifiquement à...

— To address specifically... Used when a message is meant for a certain group.

Ce discours s'adresse spécifiquement aux nouveaux étudiants.

Être spécifiquement lié à...

— To be specifically linked to... Used to show a direct connection.

Le succès est spécifiquement lié à ton travail acharné.

Mentionné spécifiquement.

— Specifically mentioned. Used to confirm a detail was noted.

C'est un point qui a été mentionné spécifiquement lors de la réunion.

Spécifiquement conçu.

— Specifically designed. Used for products or systems.

Un moteur spécifiquement conçu pour la course.

Parler spécifiquement de...

— To talk specifically about... Used to narrow a conversation.

Nous allons parler spécifiquement de ton avenir.

Spécifiquement parlant.

— Specifically speaking. Used as an introductory phrase to provide precise data.

Spécifiquement parlant, le projet coûtera dix mille euros.

Frequentemente confundido com

spécifiquement vs précisément

Use 'précisément' for exact time/numbers; 'spécifiquement' for focus/intent.

spécifiquement vs spécialement

Often synonyms, but 'spécialement' can also mean 'especially' or 'extraordinarily'.

spécifiquement vs particulièrement

Means 'particularly' or 'very'; 'spécifiquement' is more about defining a category.

Expressões idiomáticas

"Mettre le doigt spécifiquement sur le problème"

— To put one's finger specifically on the problem. To identify the exact cause of a trouble.

L'expert a pu mettre le doigt spécifiquement sur la faille de sécurité.

Neutral
"Viser spécifiquement dans le mille"

— To aim specifically at the bullseye. To be perfectly accurate in one's assessment.

Son analyse visait spécifiquement dans le mille.

Informal/Metaphorical
"Ne pas avoir de cible spécifiquement en vue"

— To not have a specific target in sight. To be acting without a clear, narrow goal.

Il avance dans sa carrière sans avoir de cible spécifiquement en vue.

Neutral
"C'est spécifiquement de la petite bière"

— It's specifically small beer (meaning: it's insignificant). Note: This is a play on the idiom 'c'est de la petite bière'.

Ce problème est spécifiquement de la petite bière comparé au reste.

Informal
"Tailler spécifiquement sur mesure"

— To tailor specifically to measure. To make something perfectly fit a need.

Ce contrat a été taillé spécifiquement sur mesure pour vous.

Professional
"Aller spécifiquement au charbon"

— To go specifically to the coal (meaning: to do the hard work).

Il a été choisi spécifiquement pour aller au charbon sur ce dossier difficile.

Informal
"Spécifiquement d'un autre œil"

— Specifically from another eye. To look at a specific detail differently.

Il faut regarder ce détail spécifiquement d'un autre œil.

Neutral
"Battre le fer spécifiquement quand il est chaud"

— To strike the iron specifically while it is hot.

Nous devons agir spécifiquement maintenant, tant que le fer est chaud.

Neutral
"Chercher spécifiquement midi à quatorze heures"

— To specifically look for noon at 2 PM (meaning: to overcomplicate a specific thing).

N'essaie pas de chercher spécifiquement midi à quatorze heures avec cette règle simple.

Informal
"Être spécifiquement dans son assiette"

— To be specifically in one's plate (meaning: to feel specifically like oneself/comfortable).

Aujourd'hui, il ne se sent pas spécifiquement dans son assiette.

Informal

Fácil de confundir

spécifiquement vs précisément

Both relate to being exact.

Précisément is about 'exactness' (The train leaves at 8:00 precisely). Spécifiquement is about 'targeting' (This seat is specifically for you).

Il est précisément midi (NOT spécifiquement).

spécifiquement vs spécialement

They share the same root.

Spécialement is often used for 'especially' (I like this especially). Spécifiquement is more clinical or technical.

Je suis venu spécialement pour toi (I came especially for you).

spécifiquement vs notamment

Both highlight details.

Notamment introduces one example among many. Spécifiquement defines the entire scope of the action.

Il aime les fruits, notamment les pommes.

spécifiquement vs juste

English speakers use 'just' to mean 'specifically'.

Juste is informal and means 'only'. Spécifiquement is precise and formal.

C'est juste pour rire (It's just for laughs).

spécifiquement vs uniquement

Both imply exclusivity.

Uniquement means 'only' and is more restrictive. Spécifiquement means 'in a specific way'.

C'est uniquement pour les membres.

Padrões de frases

A1

C'est spécifiquement pour [Nom].

C'est spécifiquement pour Marie.

A2

J'ai spécifiquement [Verbe au participe passé].

J'ai spécifiquement demandé.

B1

Cela concerne spécifiquement [Sujet].

Cela concerne spécifiquement l'environnement.

B2

Vise spécifiquement à [Infinitif].

Le projet vise spécifiquement à aider les pauvres.

C1

Spécifiquement, c'est [Sujet] qui [Verbe].

Spécifiquement, c'est l'odeur qui me dérange.

C2

Ne saurait être spécifiquement lié à [Nom].

Cela ne saurait être spécifiquement lié à l'âge.

B1

Plus spécifiquement, [Clause].

Plus spécifiquement, nous voulons changer la loi.

A2

Je ne [Verbe] pas spécifiquement.

Je ne mange pas spécifiquement de viande.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

spécificité (specificity)
spécimen (specimen)
spécification (specification)

Verbos

spécifier (to specify)

Adjetivos

spécifique (specific)

Relacionado

espèce (species/kind)
spécial (special)
spécialiste (specialist)
spécialité (specialty)
spécialisation (specialization)

Como usar

frequency

High in technical/academic writing; moderate in daily speech.

Erros comuns
  • *Je spécifiquement veux ce livre. Je veux spécifiquement ce livre.

    In French, adverbs follow the conjugated verb in simple tenses. You cannot put it between the subject and the verb.

  • *J'ai choisi spécifiquement ce livre. J'ai spécifiquement choisi ce livre.

    In compound tenses like the passé composé, the adverb usually goes between the auxiliary and the past participle.

  • *Il est spécifiquement huit heures. Il est précisément huit heures.

    Use 'précisément' for exact times or measurements. 'Spécifiquement' is for intent or category.

  • *Specifiquement, je ne sais pas. Spécifiquement, je ne sais pas.

    Missing the acute accent (é) is a common spelling error.

  • *Pronouncing the 't' at the end. Pronouncing it as /mɑ̃/.

    The '-ment' ending is always nasal and the 't' is silent.

Dicas

Placement is Key

Always place 'spécifiquement' after the verb in the present tense. Never say 'Je spécifiquement demande.' Instead, say 'Je demande spécifiquement.'

Synonym Choice

Use 'en particulier' for a more natural, conversational feel. Save 'spécifiquement' for when you want to sound precise or professional.

Master the Nasal

Practice the final '-ment' by letting the air go through your nose. Avoid making a 't' sound at the end.

The Accent Matters

The acute accent on 'é' is mandatory. If you are typing on an English keyboard, learn the shortcut for 'é' (usually Alt+0233).

Exclusion vs. Addition

Use 'spécifiquement' when you are excluding other options. Use 'notamment' when you are adding an example to a list.

Academic Rigor

In essays, use 'spécifiquement' to define your thesis or the scope of your research. It shows you have a clear plan.

Listen for the 'S'

The 's' in 'spé-' is soft, like 'see.' Don't let it become a 'sh' sound.

Slow Down

Because it's a five-syllable word, it's okay to say it slightly slower than the rest of the sentence for clarity.

Specific Men

Remember the word as 'Specific' + 'Men'. It's a silly image, but it helps with the spelling.

Be Precise

French culture values precision. Using this word correctly will help you gain respect in professional French circles.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of a 'Specific Men' (Spécifique-ment) club where only men with specific traits are allowed. It helps you remember the spelling and the idea of exclusivity.

Associação visual

Imagine a giant magnifying glass focusing on one tiny red ant in a sea of black ants. The magnifying glass represents 'spécifiquement'.

Word Web

Spécifique Précis Particulier Exclusif Détail Cible Unique Mesure

Desafio

Try to use 'spécifiquement' in three different ways today: once to describe a food preference, once to describe a work task, and once to describe a movie you like.

Origem da palavra

Derived from the French adjective 'spécifique', which comes from the Medieval Latin 'specificus'. This Latin term is a combination of 'species' (kind, sort, appearance) and 'facere' (to make or do). Therefore, the root meaning is 'making a particular kind.'

Significado original: To make something into a distinct category or species.

Romance (Latin root)

Contexto cultural

There are no major sensitivities, but avoid using it to sound 'snobbish' in very casual, working-class settings where 'surtout' or 'juste' would be more natural.

English speakers often use 'specifically' as a filler or to mean 'exactly.' In French, 'spécifiquement' is slightly more formal and is less likely to be used as a filler.

Used in French legal codes (Code Civil) to define specific exceptions. Commonly found in the 'Cahiers du Cinéma' to describe specific directorial techniques. Often used by French scientists like Louis Pasteur in historical research notes.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Cooking/Dietary Needs

  • Je suis spécifiquement allergique aux noix.
  • Cuisiné spécifiquement sans sel.
  • Un régime spécifiquement pour les sportifs.
  • Utiliser spécifiquement de l'huile d'olive.

Professional/Workplace

  • Je m'occupe spécifiquement de la logistique.
  • Le patron a spécifiquement demandé ce rapport.
  • C'est un problème spécifiquement technique.
  • Recruter spécifiquement pour ce poste.

Academic/Research

  • L'analyse porte spécifiquement sur le texte.
  • Un échantillon spécifiquement choisi.
  • Spécifiquement défini par l'auteur.
  • Plus spécifiquement dans le deuxième chapitre.

Shopping/Retail

  • Je cherche spécifiquement ce modèle.
  • Est-ce fait spécifiquement pour l'extérieur ?
  • Une offre spécifiquement pour les membres.
  • Vendu spécifiquement en pharmacie.

Legal/Administrative

  • La loi mentionne spécifiquement ce cas.
  • Un contrat spécifiquement rédigé.
  • Interdit spécifiquement par le décret.
  • S'applique spécifiquement aux mineurs.

Iniciadores de conversa

"Est-ce que tu cherches quelque chose de spécifiquement français à acheter ?"

"Y a-t-il un type de musique que tu détestes spécifiquement ?"

"As-tu un talent spécifiquement utile pour ton travail actuel ?"

"Pourquoi as-tu choisi spécifiquement d'apprendre le français ?"

"Quel aspect de la culture française t'intéresse spécifiquement ?"

Temas para diário

Décrivez une situation où vous avez dû demander quelque chose spécifiquement pour obtenir ce que vous vouliez.

Quels sont les objectifs que vous voulez atteindre spécifiquement cette année ?

Parlez d'un livre ou d'un film qui vous a spécifiquement marqué et expliquez pourquoi.

Si vous pouviez voyager n'importe où, quelle ville choisiriez-vous spécifiquement et que feriez-vous là-bas ?

Réfléchissez à une compétence que vous possédez et expliquez comment elle est spécifiquement liée à votre personnalité.

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

Yes, in almost all contexts, it translates directly to 'specifically.' However, in French, it carries a slightly more formal tone than it does in casual English. You would use it more in a report than when chatting with a friend at a bar.

The accent is an acute accent (accent aigu) on the first 'e': spécifiquement. It is crucial for the 'ay' sound in the first syllable. Without it, the word would be pronounced differently and would be spelled incorrectly.

Yes, you can use it at the start of a sentence for emphasis, usually followed by a comma. For example: 'Spécifiquement, nous cherchons un expert en droit.' This draws immediate attention to the specific requirement you are about to state.

They are very close and often interchangeable. However, 'spécialement' can also mean 'especially' or 'extraordinarily,' whereas 'spécifiquement' is strictly about being specific or targeted. When in doubt in a professional setting, 'spécifiquement' is often safer.

The '-ment' ending is a nasal vowel. Do not pronounce the 'n' or the 't.' It sounds like the 'an' in 'élan' but with an 'm' in front. Your tongue should not touch the roof of your mouth at the end of the word.

Yes, frequently. 'Ce n'est pas spécifiquement ce que je voulais' means 'It's not specifically what I wanted.' It allows you to be polite while indicating that a detail is slightly off.

No, there is no common abbreviation for 'spécifiquement.' If you want a shorter word, you would use 'juste' or 'précis' (though 'précis' is an adjective, not an adverb).

Yes. For example, 'C'est un produit spécifiquement régional.' Here, it modifies 'régional' to say the product is uniquely from that region. In this case, it always comes before the adjective.

Not really. It is too long and formal for most French slang. In slang, people would use 'grave' or just 'trop' to emphasize things, or 'juste' for specificity.

The most common mistake is misplacing it in the sentence, especially putting it before the verb like in English. Remember: in French, adverbs love to follow the conjugated verb!

Teste-se 185 perguntas

writing

Write: 'It is specifically for me.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'I specifically asked for a pizza.'

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writing

Write: 'This book is specifically about art.'

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writing

Write: 'The law targets specifically the rich.'

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writing

Write: 'Specifically, it is the price that is the problem.'

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writing

Write: 'Specifically this toy.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write: 'I don't specifically like milk.'

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writing

Write: 'He works specifically here.'

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writing

Write: 'A specifically adapted tool.'

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writing

Write: 'More specifically, I want to leave.'

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writing

Write: 'For you specifically.'

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'She specifically chose this.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write: 'We are specifically looking for a car.'

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writing

Write: 'The study focuses specifically on health.'

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writing

Write: 'Specifically speaking, it's a success.'

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writing

Write: 'Specifically for kids.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Write: 'I want this specifically.'

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writing

Write: 'Mentioned specifically in the report.'

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Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'Specifically allocated funds.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Write: 'Specifically linked to the virus.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'C'est spécifiquement pour toi.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'J'ai spécifiquement demandé cela.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Il s'agit spécifiquement de mon chat.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'Le plan vise spécifiquement les étudiants.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'Spécifiquement parlant, c'est impossible.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Spécifiquement ce livre.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Je ne veux pas spécifiquement cela.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Nous cherchons spécifiquement un expert.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'C'est un outil spécifiquement adapté.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'Plus spécifiquement, je parle de l'économie.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'Pour Marie spécifiquement.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Elle a spécifiquement choisi.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Le guide mentionne spécifiquement ce lieu.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'Le budget est spécifiquement alloué.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'Spécifiquement lié au climat.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'Spécifiquement pour les bébés.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Je cherche spécifiquement le pain.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'C'est spécifiquement ce que j'ai dit.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'L'étude s'adresse spécifiquement aux cadres.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Une pathologie spécifiquement humaine.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen: 'C'est spécifiquement pour toi.' (Who for?)

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen: 'J'ai spécifiquement choisi ce jour.' (Was it random?)

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen: 'Il parle spécifiquement de son travail.' (What is he talking about?)

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Listen: 'Le budget vise spécifiquement la santé.' (What is the target?)

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Listen: 'Spécifiquement parlant, c'est une réussite.' (Is it a success?)

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Listen: 'Spécifiquement ce livre.' (Any book?)

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Listen: 'Je ne cherche pas spécifiquement cela.' (Is that what they want?)

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Listen: 'Le rapport mentionne spécifiquement ce point.' (Is the point in the report?)

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Listen: 'L'outil est spécifiquement adapté.' (Is it general?)

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Listen: 'Plus spécifiquement, parlons de l'art.' (What is the topic?)

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Listen: 'Spécifiquement pour les enfants.' (Who for?)

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listening

Listen: 'Nous allons spécifiquement à Paris.' (Where?)

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listening

Listen: 'Le logiciel cible spécifiquement les virus.' (Target?)

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Listen: 'Le symptôme est spécifiquement lié au stress.' (Cause?)

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen: 'Une clause spécifiquement rédigée.' (Is it a general clause?)

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:

/ 185 correct

Perfect score!

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