How to Use "Specially" and "Especially" Correctly With Examples
The difference between "specially" and "especially" is a common topic in English grammar exams, school assignments, and daily conversation. Understanding how and when to use these confusing adverbs will help you avoid mistakes in writing and speaking. Mastering this topic is important for students and English learners preparing for tests.
| Word | Meaning | Common Usage | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Specially | For a special purpose or in a special way | Describes something made or done for a unique reason | The cake was specially baked for you. |
| Especially | Particularly; more than others | Shows preference, emphasises importance among options | I like fruit, especially mangoes. |
Difference Between Specially and Especially
Both "specially" and "especially" are adverbs, but their meanings are not the same. "Specially" relates to something for a special purpose, while "especially" adds emphasis or shows something is more important than others. Mixing them up can change your meaning. These differences often appear in school grammar exams and competitive English tests.
Definitions and Parts of Speech
| Word | Part of Speech | Definition | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Specially | Adverb | For a specific or special reason | /spəˈʃəli/ |
| Especially | Adverb | Particularly, more than anything else | /ɪˈspeʃəli/ |
How to Use "Specially" and "Especially" in Sentences
Use "specially" when talking about something made, done, or intended for a special purpose. Use "especially" to highlight one thing above others in a group. Learn the difference through examples and see which one fits your sentence best in exams or daily English.
Examples Using "Specially"
- The teacher made worksheets specially for exam practice.
- This chair was specially designed for comfort.
- We ordered a cake specially for the party.
Examples Using "Especially"
- She enjoys sports, especially tennis.
- I love Indian food, especially biryani.
- This road is busy, especially in the morning.
Common Confusions and Memory Tips
- Specially = ‘for a special purpose’ (think: specifically/specially-made)
- Especially = ‘more than others’ (think: for emphasis, especially = extra special attention)
- Do not use "specially" for adding emphasis. Use "especially" for showing importance.
- For exams: If you can say "particularly", use "especially".
Quick Comparison Table: Specially vs. Especially
| Usage | Specially | Especially |
|---|---|---|
| Main Use | For a specific purpose or reason | For showing preference/emphasis |
| Substitute Word | Specifically, uniquely | Particularly, mainly |
| Example | This room is specially reserved. | This book is especially good. |
Student Practice: Fill in the Blanks
- The dessert was __________ made for the event.
Answer
Specially - I love outdoor activities, __________ hiking.
Answer
Especially - He wore a suit __________ chosen for the award ceremony.
Answer
Specially - This area is crowded, __________ during festivals.
Answer
Especially
Why Understanding This Difference Matters
Knowing the distinction between "specially" and "especially" improves clarity in your writing and speaking. It helps you avoid common errors in school and competitive exams. At Vedantu, we teach such English grammar details so you can express yourself accurately and boost your exam confidence.
Explore More English Usage Topics
- Difference Between Was and Were
- Grammar Rules: Interjection
- Prepositions of Cause, Reason, Purpose
- Adverbs
- Adjectives and Adverbs
- Commonly Confused Words
- Adverb Exercises
- Grammar for Class 3
- Adverbs of Degree
- Examples on Superlative and Comparative Adjectives
In summary, the difference between "specially" and "especially" is easy to master once you know their usage and examples. Use "specially" for things made for special purpose, and "especially" to highlight importance or preference. Practising these words will make your English more accurate and clear for school, exams, and everyday life.
FAQs on Difference Between Specially and Especially in English
1. What is the difference between "specially" and "especially"?
The main difference lies in their meaning and usage. Specially means "for a particular purpose" or "in a special way," while especially means "particularly" or "more than others." They are often confused because of their similar sounds.
2. Can you give examples of "specially" and "especially" in sentences?
Here are examples illustrating the difference:
Specially: "This cake was specially baked for your birthday." (made for a specific reason)
Especially: "I enjoy all seasons, especially summer." (more than others)
3. Are "specially" and "especially" interchangeable?
No, "specially" and "especially" are not interchangeable. Using one in place of the other changes the meaning of the sentence. They are both adverbs, but their meanings are distinct.
4. How do you remember when to use "especially" or "specially"?
Think of specially as relating to something made or done for a particular purpose or reason. Remember especially as highlighting something above others or to a greater degree. Practice using both words in different sentences.
5. What is the difference between specially and especially with example?
Specially indicates something done for a specific purpose or person; especially highlights something as more important or prominent than others. For example: The car was specially modified for racing (purpose); I enjoy all fruits, especially mangoes (preference).
6. What do "specially" and "especially" mean in Hindi or Urdu?
The direct translation varies depending on context. However, specially could translate to something like "ख़ास तौर पर" (khaas taur par) in Hindi or "خاص طور پر" (khaas tor par) in Urdu, meaning "in a special way." Especially might be translated as "ख़ास तौर पर" (khaas taur par) or "ज़्यादा" (zyada) meaning "more" or "particularly." Context is key for accurate translation.
7. Is there a difference between special and especial?
While both relate to something unusual or important, special is more common in everyday speech. Especial is more formal and less frequent, often implying a degree of emphasis or significance. Both are adjectives, not adverbs like "specially" and "especially."
8. How do I use especially?
Use especially to highlight one thing as more important or noticeable compared to others. It usually modifies a noun or verb, emphasizing a particular instance or detail. For instance: "I love all types of music, especially classical." Here, "classical" is given added importance among other music types.
9. What is an example of especially?
Consider this: "The conference was successful, especially the keynote speech." Here, "especially" points to the keynote speech as a particularly noteworthy part of the overall success of the conference. It emphasizes a specific element.
10. Specially vs especially example?
Here's a comparison: "This gift was specially chosen for you" (chosen with a particular purpose in mind) vs. "I love all desserts, especially chocolate cake" (chocolate cake is preferred among other desserts). The key is purpose versus preference or emphasis.
11. Difference between specially and especially with examples?
The difference lies in their function. Specially describes something made or done for a specific purpose (e.g., a specially designed tool). Especially highlights something as more significant than others (e.g., I liked the movie, especially the soundtrack).
12. Difference between specially and especially grammar?
Both are adverbs modifying verbs or clauses. However, specially indicates a specific purpose or manner, while especially emphasizes a particular element or degree. Grammatically, their placement in a sentence is flexible, but their meaning dictates their best position for clarity.
