What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unspecified
Example
The job posting had unspecified requirements. [unspecified: adjective]
Example
She left the reason for her absence unspecified. [unspecified: adjective]
unidentified
Example
The police are searching for an unidentified suspect. [unidentified: adjective]
Example
The object in the sky remained unidentified. [unidentified: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unspecified is more commonly used than unidentified in everyday language. Unspecified is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while unidentified is less common and is often used in specific situations, such as in law enforcement or scientific research.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between unspecified and unidentified?
Both unspecified and unidentified are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
