Definition

1. Noun:
   • A detailed description of design criteria for a piece of work: A "spec" is a precise, often technical, document that outlines the requirements, dimensions, materials, and standards for constructing, manufacturing, or developing something.
   • (Informal) Short for "speculation" or "speculative": In informal contexts, particularly in business or finance, "spec" can refer to an activity or venture undertaken with the hope of profit but with the risk of loss.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Design Criteria):
  • The engineer wrote a detailed spec for the new software module.
  • Before building the house, the architect provided the builder with the specs.
• Noun (Informal: Speculation):
  • He bought the old building on spec, hoping to renovate and sell it for a profit.
  • It was a pure spec investment, not based on any firm orders.

Advanced Usage

• "to spec" (Phrasal Verb/Verb): To build or manufacture something according to provided specifications.
  • The car was custom-built to the client's exact spec.
• "off spec" (Adjective Phrase): Not meeting the required specifications or standards.
  • The batch of components was rejected because they were off spec.

Variants and Related Words

• Specification (n): The full, formal term for "spec," meaning a detailed description of requirements.
  • Please review the technical specification before proceeding.
• Speculative (adj): Based on conjecture or risk rather than knowledge. Related to the informal meaning of "spec."
  • His investment was highly speculative.

Synonyms

• Blueprint: A detailed plan or design.
• Requirements: Things that are needed or demanded.
• Speculation: Investment in risky ventures for potential profit.

Related Phrases (Phrasal Verbs)

• Spec out (phrasal verb): To prepare or write the specifications for something.
  • We need to spec out the project requirements before the meeting.

Related Idioms

• On spec: Doing something (like work or an investment) without a prior agreement or order, hoping it will be accepted or profitable.
  • The writer submitted the article on spec, with no guarantee of payment.

Noun

1. a detailed description of design criteria for a piece of work