# especially

/əˈspɛʃəɫi/ (US) · /ɪspˈɛʃəlˌi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/especially
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. particularly

adverb · CEFR A2

to a greater degree than usual or more than other things.

For teachers: to a great extent or degree; used to indicate that a quality applies more to one thing than to others.

- The food at that restaurant is great, especially the pasta dishes.
- The humidity was especially oppressive that afternoon, making even the shortest walk feel like a significant physical challenge.

Usage: Often used before an adjective or to introduce a specific example after a general statement.

### 2. for a specific reason

adverb · CEFR B1

used to show that something was done for one particular purpose or person.

For teachers: used to single out a specific purpose, person, or occasion for which an action is performed.

- I bought this gift especially for you because I know you love blue.
- The software was designed especially for small businesses that lack the resources to maintain a dedicated IT department.

Usage: Frequently followed by the preposition 'for'.

## Examples

- I love fruit, especially apples.
- The roads are very slippery today, especially on the bridges where ice forms quickly.
- 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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.