VocabDictionary

non specific

/ˌnɒn.spəˈsɪf.ɪk/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Not detailed or exact; lacking a unique or identifiable characteristic, cause, or target.

Example Sentences:
  • The patient complained of non-specific symptoms like fatigue and mild aches.
  • The manager gave non-specific feedback that didn't help the team improve their performance.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “non specific”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the prefix 'non-' (Latin 'non', meaning 'not') combined with 'specific' (from Late Latin 'specificus', from 'species' meaning 'kind' or 'appearance' + 'facere' meaning 'to make'). The term emerged in the 19th century to describe phenomena or medical conditions that lack a unique or identifiable cause.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'non-specific' instruction as one that 'non-points' to anything in particular.

Frequently Asked Questions About “non specific

1. What is the meaning of “non specific” in English?

In English, non specific (adjective) is defined as: “Not detailed or exact; lacking a unique or identifiable characteristic, cause, or target.”.

2. How do you use “non specific” in a sentence?

The patient complained of non-specific symptoms like fatigue and mild aches.

3. What are English synonyms of “non specific”?

Common synonyms include:vague,indefinite,general,ambiguous,imprecise

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “non specific”?

Derived from the prefix 'non-' (Latin 'non', meaning 'not') combined with 'specific' (from Late Latin 'specificus', from 'species' meaning 'kind' or 'appearance' + 'facere' meaning 'to make'). The term emerged in the 19th century to describe phenomena or medical conditions that lack a unique or identifiable cause.