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 course’s owners could have easily sold the land for development, but they hated to turn their backs on the community, especially as the course neared its 100th anniversary.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

Start with the jeow trio — especially the mushroom jeow.

From Salon • Jun. 11, 2026

"It means failed rains, dying crops, rising food prices, and families pushed to the edge yet again. In East Africa especially, this will land on communities already battered by droughts and floods in recent years."

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

Wireless shares could bounce, especially if the IPO doesn’t go well.

From Barron's • Jun. 11, 2026

It was a wonder we’d never crossed paths with Ethan, especially if he visited Sandy June’s as regularly as he claimed.

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith

Vocabulary lists containing especially

Commonly Confused Words, List 3

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Commonly Confused Words, List 6

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Commonly Confused Words, List 8

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!