Which meaning best captures the word 'specific' in a technical context?

• A. Clear and precise
• B. General; not particular
• C. Particular; relating to one specific person, group or thing
• D. Universal

Answer: (C)

In technical use, specific focuses on something singled out or defined for a particular case. It signals that the information, property, or instruction applies to one exact thing rather than to everything in a broad category. That’s why the best fit is the meaning that denotes being particular and tied to one definite person, group, or thing—because technical terms like specific gravity, specific instructions, or specific measurements are all about precise applicability to a chosen target.

While clear and precise is related to how we present information, the core idea of specific in a technical context is its association with a particular item or context, not just general clarity. The ideas of being general or universal are opposite to this sense, since they describe broad, widely applicable concepts rather than a chosen item.