What's the Difference Between 'Especially' and 'Specially'?

In this blog post we look at when to use especially and when to use specially.

'Especially' or 'Specially'?

"Especially" and "specially" are both adverbs that can be used to indicate that something is of particular importance or significance. However, there is a subtle difference in the way these terms are used and defined.

"Especially" means "particularly" or "in particular."

It is used to emphasize that something is of special importance or significance. For example: "I am especially fond of chocolate ice cream."

"Specially" means "for a specific purpose" or "custom-made."

It is used to indicate that something has been designed or created for a specific purpose or use.

For example: "The cake was specially made for the birthday party."

In summary, "especially" is used to emphasize that something is of special importance or significance, while "specially" is used to indicate that something has been designed or created for a specific purpose or use.

Here are a few examples to illustrate the difference between "especially" and "specially":

  1. "I especially love the way this dress fits." (Here, "especially" is used to emphasize that the speaker really likes the way the dress fits.)

  2. "The restaurant is known for its seafood, especially its lobster dishes." (Here, "especially" is used to emphasize that the restaurant is particularly known for its lobster dishes.)

  3. "I made these cookies specially for you." (Here, "specially" is used to indicate that the cookies were made specifically for the listener.)

  4. "The company developed a new product line specially for the holiday season." (Here, "specially" is used to indicate that the product line was specifically designed for the holiday season.)

Examples of Especially in a Sentence

Here are ten sentences using the word "especially":

  1. "I especially enjoyed the concert last night."

  2. "She has a talent for painting, especially watercolors."

  3. "I'm looking forward to the beach vacation, especially the swimming and sunbathing."

  4. "He's particularly skilled at fixing cars, especially vintage models."

  5. "I'm allergic to nuts, especially peanuts."

  6. "She's an excellent cook, especially when it comes to baking."

  7. "I'm excited to try the new restaurant, especially since it has such great reviews."

  8. "He's a natural leader, especially in crisis situations."

  9. "I love all types of music, but I especially enjoy jazz and blues."

  10. "She's a talented dancer, especially when it comes to salsa and tango."

Examples of Specially in a Sentence

Here are ten sentences using the word "specially":

  1. "I made this meal specially for you."

  2. "The company developed a new software program specially for small businesses."

  3. "She designed the wedding dress specially for the bride."

  4. "The museum has a specially curated exhibition on ancient Egyptian artifacts."

  5. "The company manufactures a line of products specially for pets."

  6. "He built the shelving unit specially to fit in the corner of the room."

  7. "The bakery is offering a special Valentine's Day cake, specially decorated with hearts."

  8. "She created a workout plan specially for athletes."

  9. "The store is offering a special discount to students, specially for back-to-school shopping."

  10. "The company is hosting a special event for its top customers, specially invited to attend."


Especially or Specially
Especially or Specially