What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
specific
Example
Can you be more specific about what you need help with? [specific: adjective]
Example
The instructions were very specific and easy to follow. [specific: adjective]
Example
I'm looking for a specific book that I saw in the store last week. [specific: adjective]
particular
Example
I don't like this particular shade of blue. [particular: adjective]
Example
She has a particular way of doing things that works for her. [particular: adjective]
Example
I'm looking for a particular type of coffee that I had on my trip to Italy. [particular: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Specific is more commonly used than particular in formal writing and technical contexts. Particular is more commonly used in everyday language to describe personal preferences or unique situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between specific and particular?
Specific is more formal than particular, which is more commonly used in informal contexts. However, both words can be used in formal and informal settings depending on the context.
