In this blog post, we will learn the meaning of especially and explore useful synonyms that can replace it in English. The word especially is often used to give importance or highlight something, but using different words makes your English sound more natural and advanced. Knowing these alternatives will help improve both your writing and speaking skills.
What Does Especially Mean?
The word especially means more than usual, more than others, or with extra importance.
Example: I like fruits, especially mangoes.
Related: Other Words for However
Synonyms for Especially with Meanings and Examples
| Synonym | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Particularly | More than usual, in detail | I love Italian food, particularly pizza. |
| Notably | Worth mentioning | The teacher praised her, notably for her hard work. |
| Chiefly | Mainly, mostly | The meeting was chiefly about exam results. |
| Primarily | For the main reason | The app is designed primarily for students. |
| Explicitly | Clearly and directly | He explicitly said he wanted coffee. |
| Mainly | Mostly, for the larger part | The shop sells mainly clothes. |
| Above all | More than anything else | Above all, be honest in life. |
| In particular | Pointing to one thing | I enjoy sports, in particular cricket. |
| Specially | For a special purpose | This gift was specially made for you. |
| Markedly | Clearly different | Her attitude was markedly better today. |
Other Ways to Say Especially
Here are some easy alternatives you can use in daily English:
- Mainly → I go to the library mainly to study.
- Above all → Above all, stay calm in exams.
- In particular → I like books, in particular history.
- Specially → She came specially to help you.
- Chiefly → The job is chiefly about management.
Formal Ways to Say Especially
These words are best for essays, reports, and professional writing:
- Particularly → The company is particularly strong in marketing.
- Notably → He was notably absent from the meeting.
- Chiefly → The law applies chiefly to business owners.
- Primarily → The course is primarily designed for beginners.
- Markedly → The results were markedly better this year.
Informal Ways to Say Especially
These words are better for daily speaking and casual use:
- Mainly → I mainly eat home food.
- Above all → Above all, listen to your parents.
- Specially → I specially saved this cake for you.
- In particular → I enjoy movies, in particular comedies.
- Most of all → I love ice cream, most of all chocolate.
Contexts and Usage of Especially
To Highlight Importance
→ She is hardworking, especially in science.
To Show Exception
→ Everyone enjoyed the trip, especially the kids.
To Give Emphasis
→ I especially want to thank my teacher.
To Point Out a Special Case
→ The rule is strict, especially for drivers.
Example Sentences with Alternatives
- I enjoy reading, particularly history books.
- The weather was hot, notably in July.
- The course is chiefly for beginners.
- He made the design specially for her.
- Above all, stay kind to others.
FAQs
What is the meaning of especially in English?
Especially means giving more importance to something compared to others. Example: I love sports, especially cricket.
What is a synonym for especially in formal English?
Formal synonyms include particularly, notably, chiefly, primarily, and markedly.
What is the difference between specially and especially?
Specially means “for a special purpose,” while especially means “more than others.” Example: This cake was specially made for you. I love all fruits, especially mangoes.
Can we use above all instead of especially?
Yes, in informal speech. Example: Above all, be honest.
What are common informal alternatives for especially?
Informal synonyms include mainly, in particular, specially, above all, and most of all.
Read More