What does particularly mean?
Particularly is an adverb meaning to an especially great or notable degree. It is used to emphasize a quality or to draw attention to a specific person, thing, or circumstance: a proposal may be particularly useful, a day may be particularly busy, or a speaker may mention one policy in particular. In many contexts it is nearly interchangeable with especially, though particularly often carries a stronger suggestion that something stands out or deserves special attention. The word is widely used in both British and American English, in formal writing and conversation alike. It is also useful after a comma when identifying a specific example, as in “Several issues were raised, particularly funding and staffing.” Although the word can intensify an adjective, it is not limited to that use and may modify a verb, noun phrase, or clause.
adverbTo an especially great or notable degree; in a way that singles out someone or something for special attention.
- To an especially great or notable degree.
- In a way that singles out a particular person, thing, or aspect.
"The report was particularly concerned with the effects of climate change on coastal communities."
"She was particularly talented at solving difficult mathematical problems."
"The museum is popular with families, and children particularly enjoy its interactive exhibits."
Particularly comes from the same Latin root as particular, giving it an emphasis on what stands out from the crowd.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does particularly come from?
Particularly entered English from Medieval Latin, where particulariter meant 'as a particular' or 'in particular detail.' This form developed from Latin particularis, meaning 'relating to a part,' and ultimately from Latin pars, meaning 'part' or 'portion.' The same root underlies particular, peculiar, and other words concerning parts or distinctive characteristics. The adverb's modern sense of 'especially' developed through the idea of singling out a particular instance.
How particularly is actually used
Particularly is common in formal and informal English. It often introduces a singled-out person, example, or feature, but it can also serve as a general intensifier meaning 'especially.'
Easily confused with particularly
Particularly and especially are closely related in meaning, but particularly often emphasizes a distinctive feature or singled-out example, whereas especially is a broader and sometimes more neutral intensifier.