Definitions

especially

[ih-spesh-uh-lee] / ɪˈspɛʃ ə li /

ADVERB

exceptionally, particularly

Synonyms

STRONGEST

chiefly exclusively notably principally specially specifically

STRONG

peculiarly

WEAK

abnormally above all before all else conspicuously curiously eminently expressly extraordinarily in particular in specie mainly markedly oddly outstandingly preeminently primarily remarkably signally singularly strangely strikingly supremely unaccountably uncommonly uncustomarily uniquely unusually wonderfully

Antonyms

STRONGEST

broadly

WEAK

commonly generally normally ordinarily unexceptionally usually

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The shrine was well known as especially popular with Chinese visitors.

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

This flexibility is especially important for mitochondrial fusion, a process in which individual mitochondria join together to form interconnected networks.

From Science Daily • Jun. 11, 2026

These “backdoor” references have long played a role in hiring, especially for senior roles.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

“It’s trapped millions of Americans, especially young men, in life-changing debt and financial distress.”

From MarketWatch • Jun. 10, 2026

They were all watching me, especially the auntie.

From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu

Vocabulary lists containing especially

Commonly Confused Words, List 3

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Commonly Confused Words, List 6

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Commonly Confused Words, List 8

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