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 year 2024 - the warmest on record - was boosted by an El Niño that was not even especially strong.

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

There’s nothing like taking a cool dip after a hot day, especially in L.A. summer weather.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 11, 2026

SNL remains a consistent thorn in his side, especially when Alec Baldwin is playing him.

From Slate • Jun. 11, 2026

Expanding non-ad revenue wasn’t an especially urgent problem until recently.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

I was hoping to go to the pool for an hour of extra practice, especially now that the meet is only six weeks away, but it’s closed for maintenance.

From "Red Flags and Butterflies" by Sheryl Azzam

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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