ENGLISH
REFERENCE

specially

adv. manner
B1 Intermediate US //ˈspɛʃəɫi// UK //spˈɛʃəlˌi// spe·cial·ly

adv. for a specific purpose or person. You use this when something is made or done in a unique way just for one reason.

adv. for a particular purpose, person, or reason; in a manner designed for a specific requirement.


SIMPLE

I bought this cake specially for your birthday.

CONTEXTUAL

The software was specially designed to help small businesses track their inventory without needing complex training.

COMPLEX

The legal team drafted the contract specially to address the unique intellectual property concerns raised during the initial negotiations.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English specialli, specially, equivalent to special + -ly.

Usage

Often confused with 'especially'; 'specially' focuses on a specific purpose or design rather than a high degree.

Pitfall

I like fruit, specially apples.I like fruit, especially apples.Use 'especially' to mean 'particularly' or 'above all'; use 'specially' for a specific purpose or unique design.

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