Definition of Especially
Quick Meaning of Especially
To a greater degree than normal; particularly; to an unusual or special extent.
Detailed Definition of Especially
To a great extent or degree; more than usually or ordinarily.
How to Pronounce Especially
Stress pattern: oOoo (4-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the second syllable: e-SPESH-uh-lee. The 'cial' sounds like 'shul'.
Watch out: Some learners say 'especially' too quickly, blending syllables; pronounce each syllable distinctly.
Origin and Etymology of Especially
From especial (Latin 'specialis'), meaning set apart or individual.
How to Use Especially in a Sentence
Each example shows “especially” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“I especially enjoy swimming during summer months.”
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“The report was especially important for the company's future.”
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“She studied hard, especially for the mathematics final exam.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Especially
Common Synonyms for Especially
Smart Synonyms for Especially — When to Use Each
- particularly
- when emphasizing one thing among many options
- notably
- when highlighting something stands out significantly
- distinctly
- when marking clear difference from other cases
Common Collocations with Especially
These phrases pair with “especially” in everyday English:
- especially during summer
- especially in the morning
- especially when needed
- especially true for
- especially important to
Common Mistakes When Using Especially
Even fluent speakers slip up with “especially”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: She enjoys swimming, special during summer.
- ✓ Correct: She enjoys swimming, especially during summer.
- Why: Especially (not special) is the adverb form modifying the clause; special is only an adjective.
- ✗ Wrong: The exam was especially difficult, especially the math part.
- ✓ Correct: The exam was especially difficult, and particularly the math part.
- Why: Using especially twice in one sentence is redundant; use synonyms like particularly or notably for variety.
Other Forms of Especially
- Adjective: especial
- Adverb: especially
Frequently Asked Questions About Especially
What is the meaning of "Especially"?
To a greater degree than normal; particularly; to an unusual or special extent.
How do you pronounce "Especially"?
The IPA is /ɪˈspeʃəli/. Stress the second syllable: e-SPESH-uh-lee. The 'cial' sounds like 'shul'.
What part of speech is "Especially"?
"Especially" is an adverb at B1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Especially"?
Common synonyms include particularly, notably, distinctly.
How do you use "Especially" in a sentence?
For example: "I especially enjoy swimming during summer months."