Especially vs. Specially — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on October 5, 2023
Especially implies particularly or above all. Specially denotes for a specific purpose. Both carry a theme of specificity but apply it differently.
Difference Between Especially and Specially
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Especially" signifies a particular emphasis, often relating to exceptional or notable circumstances or entities. "Specially" involves a sense of purpose, focusing on the specificity of an intention or design. Both carry a theme of specificity but apply it differently.
"Especially" is commonly used to highlight significance or exceptionality among similar entities. "Specially" tends to express a tailored, purpose-driven action or object, indicating something was done with a specific intent or for a particular reason.
Often, "especially" could replace "particularly" in a sentence without altering the meaning. Conversely, "specially" implies a specific purpose behind an action, often synonymous with "specifically" in that context. Usage hinges heavily on intent.
"Especially" is employed to underline importance or to point out something as an exception. "Specially" is utilized more to imply something was created or done for a particular purpose, often underscoring custom creation or intentionality.
Although "especially" and "specially" are used interchangeably in casual communication, maintaining awareness of their nuanced differences enhances precision in language use, safeguarding against potential miscommunications in more formal or academic contexts.
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Comparison Chart
Basic Meaning
Particularly, above all
For a specific purpose
Synonym
Particularly
Specifically
Usage Focus
Emphasis/exceptionality
Intention/purpose
Context
Often comparative
Often purpose-driven
Interchangeability
Not always interchangeable
Not always interchangeable
Compare with Definitions
Especially
To a notable degree.
He runs fast, especially when chased.
Specially
For a particular purpose.
The room was specially decorated for the party.
Especially
Signifying a particular subject.
The car is quite safe, especially in snow.
Specially
In a particular manner.
He acted specially kind to the newcomers.
Especially
In a distinctive manner.
He dressed especially sharp for the event.
Specially
Involving a distinct, intended purpose.
The tools were made specially for carving.
Especially
Singularly, above all.
The dessert was good, especially the cake.
Specially
Indicating a distinct action.
She was trained specially for the mission.
Especially
Used to emphasize importance.
She loves flowers, especially roses.
Specially
For a special purpose
A specially commissioned report
A new coat and hat, bought specially
Especially
Used to single out one person or thing over all others
A new song, written especially for Jonathan
He despised them all, especially Sylvester
Specially
Surpassing what is common or usual; exceptional
A special occasion.
A special treat.
Especially
To a great extent; very much
He didn't especially like dancing
Sleep is especially important in growing children
Specially
Distinct among others of a kind
A special type of paint.
A special medication for arthritis.
Especially
To an extent or degree deserving of special emphasis; particularly.
Specially
Primary
His special satisfaction comes from volunteer work.
Especially
(manner) In a special manner; specially.
Specially
Peculiar to a specific person or thing; particular
My own special chair.
The special features of a computer.
Especially
(focus) Particularly; to a greater extent than is normal.
Specially
Having a limited or specific function, application, or scope
A special role in the mission.
Especially
(focus) Used to place greater emphasis upon someone or something.
Invite them all, especially Molly.
Specially
Arranged for a particular occasion or purpose
A special visit from her daughter.
Especially
In an especial manner; chiefly; particularly; peculiarly; in an uncommon degree.
Specially
Regarded with particular affection and admiration
A special friend.
Especially
To a distinctly greater extent or degree than is common;
He was particularly fussy about spelling
A particularly gruesome attack
Under peculiarly tragic circumstances
An especially (or specially) cautious approach to the danger
Specially
Additional; extra
A special holiday flight.
Especially
In a special manner;
A specially arranged dinner
Specially
Something arranged, issued, or appropriated to a particular service or occasion
Rode to work on the commuter special.
Specially
A featured attraction, such as a reduced price
A special on salmon.
Specially
A single television production that features a specific work, a given topic, or a particular performer.
Specially
For a special purpose, person, or occasion.
We had this cake made specially for your birthday.
The train is waiting specially for a high-ranking diplomat.
The school is specially for any child whose schooling was disrupted by illness.
Specially
(proscribed) extremely
She's specially good at running.
Specially
(proscribed) in particular
I love all animals, specially cute furry ones.
Specially
In a special manner; particularly; especially.
Specially
For a particular purpose; as, a meeting of the legislature is specially summoned.
Specially
In a special manner;
A specially arranged dinner
Specially
To a distinctly greater extent or degree than is common;
He was particularly fussy about spelling
A particularly gruesome attack
Under peculiarly tragic circumstances
An especially (or specially) cautious approach to the danger
Specially
With a specific user or audience in mind.
The software was designed specially for artists.
Common Curiosities
Is "especially" used for emphasis?
Yes, "especially" is used to emphasize a notable or distinct item or aspect.
Is "specially" always about intentionality?
Largely yes, it underscores an action or design done with a specific intent or purpose.
Can "especially" and "specially" be used interchangeably?
Not always, as "especially" often emphasizes importance while "specially" emphasizes specific purpose.
Does "specially" suggest custom creation?
Yes, it implies something was made or done with a particular purpose or person in mind.
Can "especially" refer to specificity?
Yes, while it often conveys emphasis, it can also highlight specificity in some contexts.
Can "especially" be substituted with "particularly"?
Often yes, "especially" and "particularly" can often be used interchangeably.
Is "specially" more about action?
Yes, it generally refers to a specific, often tailored, action or creation.
Is "especially" more common in casual language?
Yes, "especially" is often used in everyday language to denote particularity or emphasis.
Does "specially" denote something specific?
Yes, "specially" typically refers to something designed or done for a specific purpose.
Is "especially" comparative?
Often yes, it tends to highlight or emphasize one item or aspect among others.
Is "specially" used to express a tailored fit?
Yes, it can imply something has been shaped or created to fit a particular need or purpose.
Can "especially" relate to an exception?
Yes, it often points out something as being distinctive or an exception among similar entities.
Can "especially" enhance meaning?
Yes, it’s used to provide additional emphasis or importance to a particular entity.
Can "specially" indicate specificity in design?
Yes, it often suggests a tailored design or action meant for a particular purpose.
Can "specially" be substituted with "specifically"?
In many contexts yes, both can denote purposeful and intentional action or design.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
