especially

American  

[ih-spesh-uh-lee] / ɪˈspɛʃ ə li /

adverb

1. particularly; exceptionally; markedly.

   Be especially watchful when you are out walking alone.

   I love spending time outdoors, especially on sunny days.

   Synonyms:

   mainly, notably, signally

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especially British  

/ ɪˈspɛʃəlɪ /

adverb

1. in particular; specifically

   for everyone's sake, especially your children's

2. very much

   especially useful for vegans

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Usage

See special.

Related Words

Especially, chiefly, particularly, principally refer to those cases that seem to be significant. Especially and particularly single out the most prominent case or example (often in order to particularize a general statement): Winter is especially severe on old people. Corn grows well in the Midwest, particularly in Iowa. Chiefly and principally imply that the general statement applies to a majority of the cases in question and have a somewhat comparative force: Owls fly chiefly at night. Crime occurs principally in large cities.

Etymology

Origin of especially

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English; especial + -ly

Example Sentences

Even older college students may have little agency in the technology they use, especially if it’s required for class or residential life.

From Los Angeles Times

He thinks it lucky that, even though “a quick online search would reveal my extensive reporting on Russia . . . especially on sensitive topics,” the authorities did not find out.

From The Wall Street Journal

Insurers didn’t renew tens of thousands of policies, especially in fire-prone areas.

From The Wall Street Journal

"That's something that we can definitely improve on in the future, especially in tournaments further down the line - getting your homework done a little bit earlier."

From BBC

"I have no idea what treatments could help me, especially considering my complex medical history before PoTS," she said.

From BBC

Related Words

• chiefly
• exclusively
• notably
• principally
• specially
• specifically