especially
word
/əˈspɛʃəɫi/, /əˈspɛʃɫi/
uh-SPE-shuh-lee
/ɪspˈɛʃəlˌi/
i-SPE-shuh-lee
Definition
Used to single out one thing, person, or situation above others as more important or relevant.
Usage & Nuances
Common in both spoken and written English, usually before the word or phrase being emphasized ('I love fruit, especially apples.'). Not interchangeable with 'specially', which means 'for a special purpose.' Often used after a comma for added emphasis.
Spanish: especialmente - sobre todoPortuguese (BR): especialmente - principalmentePortuguese (PT): especialmente - sobretudoChinese (Simplified): 特别 - 尤其Chinese (Traditional): 特別 - 尤其Hindi: विशेष रूप से - खासकरArabic: خاصةً - بشكل خاصBengali: বিশেষ করে - বিশেষতRussian: особенноJapanese: 特にVietnamese: đặc biệt làKorean: 특히Turkish: özellikleUrdu: خصوصاًIndonesian: terutama - khususnya
Example Sentences
I like sweet food, especially chocolate.
basic
The museum is interesting, especially for children.
basic
Please be careful, especially at night.
basic
I’m especially tired after such a long day.
natural
Do you like movies? I love comedies, especially clever ones.
natural
It gets really cold here in winter, especially in January.
natural