Specially VS. especially

Question

hiis there anyone tell me about the differences between specially and especially?thank you anyway

JohnParis · Accepted Answer

The words especial and special can be used almost interchangeably. They both mean something which was “out of the ordinary” or even “exceptional”. defines especial as meaning “being distinctive”.

The two words are synonyms, and often either is appropriate:

My grandmother’s ninetieth birthday was an occasion of especial joy.
My grandmother’s ninetieth birthday was an occasion of special joy

Both of these are correct, however, especial implies that something less good exists, whereas something special doesn’t need to be compared against anything. explains the difference like this:

“special stresses having a quality, character, identity, or use of its own . especial may add implications of preeminence or preference [especial importance] .”

Note that special can be used as a noun, whereas especial cannot, in cases such as “It’s always worth checking the specials in the supermarket.”

Anonymous · Answer

In my opinion:

(1) I went to Japan, specially to learn the language. = That was the one reason that I went to Japan.

(2) I went to Japan, especially to learn the language. = That was the main reason but not the only reason.

Imantaghavi · Answer

My hat off to you. that was a thorough one.

thank you very much.

Specially VS. especially

Top answer

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

Related Questions