CSS Specificity
CSS specificity is the weight of a selector. When other cascade rules tie, the browser uses this weight to choose which style wins.
Another example
`:where(.card)` has zero specificity, while `.checkout .card.selected` has more. A theme token can cleanly replace the low-weight base rule. A third-party ID selector is placed in a layer instead of fighting it with an even longer selector.
Main parts
- 01ID column
- 02Class/attribute/pseudo-class column
- 03Type/pseudo-element column
Use it when
Keep component selectors as light as they need to be. If a style does not apply, inspect the browser's computed cascade.
Do not use it when
Do not fix CSS structure with IDs, repeated classes, or `!important` everywhere.
Name used in code
selector specificity tuple; :where() contributes zero Before you ship
Check content order, shared design values, component consistency, contrast, zoom, and layout changes by screen size. Verify every theme, language, and state. If there is motion, offer an equal reduced-motion experience.
Outcome: Use or define CSS Specificity to make the visual experience clear and easy to use. User context: `:where(.card)` has zero specificity, while `.checkout .card.selected` has more. A theme token can cleanly replace the low-weight base rule. A third-party ID selector is placed in a layer instead of fighting it with an even longer selector. Design concept to apply: CSS Specificity. Why it fits: Keep component selectors as light as they need to be. If a style does not apply, inspect the browser's computed cascade. Do not use it when: Do not fix CSS structure with IDs, repeated classes, or `!important` everywhere. Design requirements: Set the content order, shared design values, and reusable components. Define how the layout changes by screen size and state. Keep useful design choices separate from decoration. Inclusion and resilience: Check contrast, zoom, languages, themes, and reduced motion when needed. Do not use color or effects as the only way to show meaning. Acceptance criteria: The design stays clear on phones and desktops, at zoom, in every theme, and in all supported languages. Interactive states stay clear and consistent. Evidence and limits (evidence boundary): A formal document may still be a draft, release candidate, or final version. Check its status and browser or platform support. Unknowns to confirm: Brand limits, amount of content, supported themes and languages, target devices, and design-system rules.
Check this request
Review the current use of CSS Specificity. Definition: CSS specificity is the weight of a selector. When other cascade rules tie, the browser uses this weight to choose which style wins. Release checks: Check content order, shared design values, component consistency, contrast, zoom, and layout changes by screen size. Verify every theme, language, and state. If there is motion, offer an equal reduced-motion experience. Before changing code, report the evidence you found, gaps, severity, and the smallest safe fix.