Definition

In a way that does not refer to a specific thing or detail.

Example

The symptoms were described nonspecifically, making it hard to diagnose the illness.

Conversation

I heard you were feeling a bit under the weather.

Yeah, just feeling off in a nonspecifically annoying way.

That sounds frustrating; sometimes it's hard to pinpoint what's wrong.

Exactly! I just hope it passes soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonspecifically → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "specific" (from Latin "specificus", meaning particular or distinct) and the suffix "-ally" (meaning in a manner). The word "nonspecifically" means in a manner that is not particular or distinct.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') being combined with 'specific' to remember that 'nonspecifically' means in a way that is not particular.

Visually Confused Words