What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
specifier
Example
The red car is mine. [specifier: adjective]
Example
I need three apples. [specifier: numeral]
modifier
Example
She sings beautifully. [modifier: adverb]
Example
The very tall man walked by. [modifier: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Modifier is more commonly used than specifier in everyday language. Modifier is versatile and can be used to modify various parts of speech, while specifier is more limited in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between specifier and modifier?
Both specifier and modifier can be used in formal and informal contexts, but specifier may be more commonly used in technical or specialized language.
