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"Single out" is a transitive verb phrase which is often translated as "señalar", and "specify" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "especificar". Learn more about the difference between "single out" and "specify" below.
single out(
sihng
-
guhl
aut
)A transitive verb phrase is a phrase that combines a verb with a preposition or other particle and requires a direct object (e.g., take out the trash.).
1. (general)
a. señalar
The nutritionist singled out processed foods as a leading cause of illness.El nutricionista señaló los alimentos procesados como una causa importante de enfermedades.
b. distinguir
Patricia was singled out for her contributions to the company.Patricia fue distinguida por sus contribuciones a la compañía.
c. elegir
The professor singles out a few exceptional students every semester.El profesor elige a unos cuantos estudiantes excepcionales cada semestre.
specify(
speh
-
sih
-
fay
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
a. especificar
Celine asked me to meet her here today, but she didn't specify a time.Celine pidió verme aquí hoy, pero no especificó una hora.
b. precisar
I ordered a meal in Spanish for the first time and was able to specify how I wanted my meat cooked.Pedí una comida en español por primera vez y pude precisar a qué punto quería que estuviera la carne.
c. aclarar
I think she is arriving on a domestic flight, but she didn't specify.Creo que va a llegar en un vuelo nacional, pero no lo aclaró.
a. especificar
The building code specifies the requirements to be met in order to build an apartment building.El código urbano especifica los requisitos que deben cumplirse para construir un edificio de apartamentos.
