particularly

word · lemma: particular

/ˌpɑɹˈtɪkjəɫɝɫi/
par-TIK-yuh-lur-lee
/pətˈɪkjʊləli/
puh-TIK-yuh-luh-lee

Definition

More than usual or more than other things, people, or times. It is used to give special attention to one thing or to say that something is true in a strong or specific way.

Usage & Nuances

Common in both formal and everyday English. Often comes before adjectives ('particularly useful'), verbs ('I particularly liked...'), or phrases with 'in particular'. Learners often confuse it with 'especially': they are close, but 'particularly' can sound slightly more formal or more focused.

Example Sentences

I am particularly tired today.

basic

This book is particularly useful for beginners.

basic

She doesn't like cold weather, particularly in the morning.

basic

I wasn't particularly hungry, so I just had a sandwich.

natural

The movie was okay, but I didn't particularly enjoy the ending.

natural

Nothing particularly exciting happened at work today.

natural