ENGLISH
REFERENCE

especially

adv. degree
A2 Elementary Oxford US //əˈspɛʃəɫi// UK //ɪspˈɛʃəlˌi// es·pe·cial·ly General-service

adv. used to point out one person, thing, or situation that is more important or true than others. You use it to show that something stands out from the rest.

adv. to a great extent or very much; used to single out one person, thing, or instance as being more significant than others.


SIMPLE

I love fruit, especially apples.

CONTEXTUAL

The roads are very slippery today, especially on the bridges where ice forms quickly.

COMPLEX

The committee was impressed by all the applicants, especially those who had demonstrated a long-term commitment to community service through their previous volunteer roles.

Synonyms
Origin

From especial + -ly.

Usage

Typically used to modify adjectives or to introduce a specific example that reinforces a general statement.

Pitfall

I like especially apples.I especially like apples.When modifying a verb, the adverb usually sits before the verb; when highlighting a noun, it should be placed immediately before that noun.

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