特定

とくてい

specific, special, particular

JLPT N2

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"特定" (tèdìng) means "specific" or "particular," referring to something clearly defined or identified. It is often used to specify a particular time, place, person, or condition.

Common Contexts

You will frequently see "特定" in formal or written Chinese when emphasizing a precise target or condition, such as "特定时间" (specific time), "特定客户" (specific customers), or "特定环境" (specific environment).

Collocations and Patterns

  • 特定时间 (specific time): used to indicate a fixed or limited time frame.
  • 特定对象 (specific target/object): used when referring to a particular person or group.
  • 特定条件 (specific conditions): used in scientific or technical contexts.

Usage Notes

"特定" is more formal and precise than general words like "" (some) or "" (some). It implies a clear, often pre-established definition. Avoid confusing it with "特殊" which means "special" in a more subjective or qualitative sense.

Example Sentences

This problem needs to be solved within a specific time.

We designed this product for specific customers.

Specific environments affect the growth of plants.