apposita

Apposita is an Italian adjective in the feminine singular form (the masculine form is apposito; plural forms are apposite and appositi). It designates something that is specifically designated, intended for a particular purpose, or prepared for a specific use. It is commonly used to indicate that a person, document, form, or section has been created or set apart for a defined task.

Etymology and linguistic notes: apposita derives from Latin appositus, meaning placed beside or attached, and has many formal or technical uses in Italian. It is typically employed with nouns referring to objects, provisions, or sections that have been expressly provided for a given context.

Usage and examples: the term appears frequently in official or technical language. Examples include una sezione apposita (a designated section), un modulo apposito (a form prepared for a specific purpose), disposizioni apposite (the provisions laid down for a particular matter), and una normativa apposita. The emphasis is on designation rather than mere suitability.

Nuance and related terms: apposita stresses that something has been specifically assigned or prepared for a task, often by an authority or institution. It should not be confused with sinonimi such as appropriata (appropriate), opportuna (timely or convenient), or specifica (specific) in a broader sense; apposita implies a formal designation or allocation. Related expressions include strumenti/apparecchi appositi and rubrica/apposita nota, depending on context.

See also: grammar note on apposizione (grammatical apposition) and other adjectives formed with apposito.