Translation guide
The English word "specific" is used to refer to something clearly defined, particular, or detailed. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 特定の (tokutei no), but other expressions like 具体的な (gutaiteki na) or 明確な (meikaku na) are used depending on whether you mean "concrete/explicit" or "clear/definite."
Referring to a particular thing, person, or group, not just any one.
Used to modify a noun to mean 'a specific/particular ~'. It emphasizes that it is not just any, but a designated one.
特定の条件を満たす必要があります。
You need to meet specific conditions.
特定の人物を探しています。
I'm looking for a specific person.
Placed before a noun, it means 'a certain/specific ~'. It is less formal than 特定の and often used when the identity is known but not named.
ある日、突然電話がかかってきた。
One specific day, I suddenly got a call.
Means 'fixed/specific' in the sense of a set standard or amount. Often used in formal contexts.
一定の基準を満たす必要がある。
You must meet specific standards.
Giving clear details or examples, not just abstract ideas.
The most common word for 'specific' when you mean 'concrete' or 'tangible'. Used for plans, examples, details, etc.
具体的な例を挙げてください。
Please give a specific example.
具体的な計画はまだありません。
I don't have a specific plan yet.
Means 'detailed/specific' when emphasizing thoroughness or minute particulars.
詳細な指示を出してください。
Please give specific instructions.
Means 'clear/definite/specific' when you want to stress that something is unambiguous.
明確な目標を設定しましょう。
Let's set specific goals.
Describing a characteristic that belongs only to a particular thing.
Pattern meaning 'specific/peculiar to ~'. Used to say a trait is unique to that thing.
この地域に特有の習慣です。
It's a custom specific to this region.
Similar to 特有の, but often used for inherent or intrinsic characteristics.
その言語固有の表現
expressions specific to that language
Used in fields like physics, biology, or statistics to mean 'per unit' or 'specialized'.
特定の (tokutei no) means 'a particular one' (identity), while 具体的な (gutaiteki na) means 'concrete, detailed' (content). Use 特定の when you mean 'not just any, but a designated one'. Use 具体的な when you mean 'not vague, but with clear details'.
The loanword スペシフィック (supeshifikku) exists but is rarely used naturally. Stick to the Japanese options above.
もう少し具体的に言ってもらえますか？
Can you be more specific?
明確な答えが必要です。
I need a specific answer.
special (specific) theory of relativity