Okuzeka
Architecture vocabulary · Professional Practice and Regulations

Specification

Meaning in architecture, with examples

/ˌspesɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/nounCommon term

In architecture, specification means: A written document that describes the materials, products, quality standards and workmanship required for a project, used together with the drawings.

In Turkish: teknik şartname, şartname

How it is used

Often shortened to 'spec'. Architects write the specification and 'specify' products; a 'high-spec' building uses expensive materials. Specifications can name exact products (prescriptive) or describe the required results (performance specification).

Example sentences

  1. The specification calls for oak flooring with a matt finish.

  2. Check the specification before you accept the contractor's alternative product.

Common collocations

  • write the specification
  • technical specification
  • performance specification
  • specify a product
  • working drawingsThe detailed, fully dimensioned set of drawings that a contractor uses to build a project, including plans, sections, elevations, details and schedules.
  • detailA large-scale drawing that shows exactly how parts of a building are put together, such as a window frame, roof edge or wall junction, with materials and dimensions.
  • tenderThe process in which contractors submit prices to build a project, or the offer itself; the client usually chooses one based on cost and quality.
  • contractorThe company or person hired to build a project according to the drawings, specifications and contract, managing workers, materials and subcontractors on site.

This word in other fields

The same English word can have a different meaning in another field:

More terms: Professional Practice and Regulations

Practise with graded reading

Reading at the right level is the fastest way to make new words stick. Pick free English books by level: