What does especially mean?
"Especially" is an adverb used to emphasize that something applies to a greater degree than usual, or to single out one person, thing, or situation as more significant than the rest. It appears constantly in everyday speech and writing: "She enjoys outdoor activities, especially hiking" marks hiking as her favourite among many pursuits. It also functions as a straightforward intensifier, particularly in understated negative constructions such as "not especially talented," where it politely signals lukewarm feeling. Derived from Latin roots meaning "of a particular kind," it entered English in the late Middle Ages and has long coexisted with its sibling word "specially," which now tends to carry a narrower sense of "for a specific purpose." Because it adds precision and warmth to comparisons, especially remains one of English's most versatile and frequently used adverbs.
To a notably greater extent than other things mentioned; in particular.
"Everyone enjoyed the concert, especially the children."
To a considerable degree; very much (especially in negation: not especially).
"He was not especially interested in politics."
"Especially" is just "specially" wearing a Latin prefix — that little "e-" turns it from purpose-built into superlative emphasis.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of especially
Especially comes from Middle French "especial," borrowed from Late Latin "specialis," meaning "of a particular kind or species," itself formed from Latin "speciēs" (appearance, kind) and "specere" (to look). The word entered English around the fourteenth century in forms like "especial" and later gained its adverbial form. Its cognates include "special," "specialist," and "species," all descending from the same Latin root concerning what is distinct or set apart.
How especially is actually used
Common in both formal and informal registers. In careful writing, "especially" is preferred over "specially" when the meaning is "most of all" rather than "for a special purpose." The phrase "not especially" is a polite, understated way of expressing mild dislike or indifference.
Easily confused with especially
"Especially" means most of all or to an exceptional degree, while "specially" typically means for a specific purpose (as in "specially designed").