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.
You need to meet specific conditions.
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.
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.
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.
Please give a specific example.
I don't have a specific plan yet.
Means 'detailed/specific' when emphasizing thoroughness or minute particulars.
Please give specific instructions.
Means 'clear/definite/specific' when you want to stress that something is unambiguous.
Let's set specific goals.
Describing a characteristic that belongs only to a particular thing.
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.
Can you be more specific?
I need a specific answer.
special (specific) theory of relativity