1 C1 idiomatic neutral
to decide, describe, and document the exact specifications of something
"The architect specced out the building materials before construction began."
both
spec out
C1 neutral both transitive
to define or list the detailed specifications of something, especially technical equipment or a project
In plain English
to decide exactly what parts and features something should have
What does "spec out" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 C1 idiomatic neutral
to equip or design something according to a particular specification
"They specced the laptops out for graphic design work."
both
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
to write out the specs, or specifications, in full
Actually means
to decide exactly what parts and features something should have
Usage tip
Common in engineering, construction, IT, and product design. Often used in passive forms such as 'The system was specced out for enterprise use.'
Words that pair with "spec out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
system car computer project building requirements
How to conjugate "spec out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
spec out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
specs out
he/she/it
Past simple
speced out
yesterday
Past participle
speced out
have + pp
-ing form
specing out
continuous
Hear "spec out" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "spec out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "spec out"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
configure design detail draw up specs for plan specify
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.