especially
gb/ɪspˈɛʃli/ us/ɪspˈɛʃli/
A2
English
~ 600
Senses
0 senses
adverb
A2
property
1
more than usually or mainly
More than is usual or normal; in a special way.
Usage pattern:
especially [adjective/noun/phrase]
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'especially' with 'specially'. 'Especially' means 'more than usual' or 'in particular', while 'specially' means 'for a special purpose'.
Synonyms
particularly (Very close in meaning; often interchangeable, though 'particularly' can sound slightly more formal.)
Antonyms
generally (Means 'in most cases' or 'usually', which contrasts with highlighting a specific case.)
Collocations
especially important
|especially when
|especially true
|especially for
|especially useful
Themes
daily life
|communication
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- This book is especially useful for beginners.
- I love Italian food, especially pasta.
- She was especially careful when driving in the rain.
- The movie was good, especially the ending.
- He’s especially interested in modern art.
Learner examples
- I like pizza, especially with cheese.
- She is especially happy today.
- This coat is especially warm.
- He runs fast, especially in races.
Grammar
Dictionary form
especially
IPA
GB/ɪspˈɛʃli/
US/ɪspˈɛʃli/
Syllables & stress
es - pe - cially (3 syllables)
Stress on 2nd syllable (pe)
Word forms
Noun
- Base: especially
- Plural: especiallies
Word family
Forms
especiallies
noun
Core family
Related words
Negative and opposite forms
unspecialized
adjective
Advanced or less common
especial
adjective C1
Expressions
especially for you
1/ɪspˈɛʃli fɚ jˈu/
fixed phrase
made or done for one person
Said when something is made or done for one person in particular.
Examples
- I baked this cake especially for you.
- This song is especially for you.
especially important
1/ɪspˈɛʃli ɪmpˈɔɹtənt/
fixed phrase
more important than others
Used to say something has more importance than other things.
Examples
- It is especially important to eat healthy foods.
- Being on time is especially important in this job.
especially when
1/ɪspˈɛʃli wˈɛn/
fixed phrase
more than usual in certain cases
Used to show that something is more true in a particular situation.
Examples
- I enjoy walking, especially when the weather is nice.
- He works hard, especially when a deadline is near.