01
spezifisch
specific
Referring to a particular, individual thing; precise and detailed.
example
Können Sie Ihre Frage bitte spezifischer formulieren?
Could you please formulate your question more specifically?
spezifisch
specific
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Sentence structure with preposition
The adjective 'spezifisch' (specific) is very often used with the preposition 'für' and the accusative to express a characteristic property or association.
EXAMPLE
Diese Symptome sind spezifisch für eine Grippeerkrankung.
These symptoms are specific to a case of the flu.
Typical collocations
To express precision, 'spezifisch' (specific) is often combined with nouns such as 'Frage' (question), 'Information' (information), 'Anforderung' (requirement), or 'Beispiel' (example).
EXAMPLE
Für die Bewerbung gibt es ganz spezifische Anforderungen.
There are very specific requirements for the application.
Context clue: Technical language
The meaning 'characteristic of' is typical of technical texts, especially in biology, medicine, or chemistry. Words like 'Zelle' (cell), 'Art' (species), 'Symptom' (symptom), or 'Wirkstoff' (active ingredient) in the sentence point to this meaning.
EXAMPLE
Dieser Antikörper ist spezifisch für ein einziges Protein.
This antibody is specific to a single protein.
Compare with
spezifisch vs genau
exact / precise
'genau' and 'spezifisch' can both express that something does not remain general. 'genau' fits when something is precise, correct, or without errors. 'spezifisch' fits more when it is about a particular individual thing, group, or characteristic. Learners may confuse the words because both have to do with clarity. As a guide: 'genau' is more about precision, while 'spezifisch' is about the particular area or case.
spezifisch
Die Kundin hat sehr spezifische Wünsche für ihre neue Wohnung.
The customer has very specific wishes for her new apartment.
genau
Bitte geben Sie die genaue Adresse auf dem Formular an.
Please enter the exact address on the form.
In real life
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