How to Use “Specifically” and “Especially” in English Grammar

Do you get confused on how to use “specifically,” “especially,” “specially,” and “particularly” when speaking and writing in English? Well, you are not alone. A lot of people find it difficult to tell the difference too. They are unable to figure out which of these adverbs to use for the meaning they intend to convey.

How to use “Specifically” in Sentences

“Specifically” is an adverb, and an adverb is a word that tells us more about a verb, an adjective, or even another adverb. When you use the word “specifically,” you show that something is precisely or exactly what you mean. It is a way to narrow down or point straight to the person or thing you are talking about.

Examples of “Specifically in Sentences

1. You should follow the instructions specifically to make the recipe taste nice.

2. The man specifically mentioned to turn off the lights before leaving the building.

3. The news is specifically about the president’s new policy.

4. I ordered a vegetarian meal specifically because I have given up meat.

5. The Prime Minister’s speech focuses specifically on the effects of pollution on the environment.

6. The tour guide specifically warned that photography is not allowed within the museum..

7. The agreement states specifically what is expected of the two companies.

8. She chose this school specifically for its high-quality education.

9. The doctor prescribed this medication specifically to help you sleep well at night.

10. The dress code at the party tonight are specifically white shirt and black tie.

How to Use “Especially”

Now, let’s look at the second confusing word, “especially.” This adverb is similar to “specifically,” but there is a difference. When you use “especially,” you want to place emphasis on something, to show that the thing is more important than other things. Another word for “especially” is “particularly” or “in particular.”

Examples of “Especially” in Sentences

1. I love all animals, especially dogs
2. She enjoys many activities, especially swimming and hiking.
3. The man is known for many talents, especially playing the saxophone.
4. You should eat healthy foods, especially vegetables and fruits.
5. She loves reading novels, especially romance books.
6. Family get-togethers are special moments, especially during the holidays.
7. He is a talented musician, especially when he plays the guitar.
8. Learning a new language can be tough, especially pronunciation.
9. We appreciate their help, especially when things are difficult for us.
10. We need to spend wisely, especially during these hard times.

“Particularly” vs. Specially”

Lastly, this lesson will not be complete without understanding the difference between “particularly” and “specially.” These two adverbs may look similar, but they are used in slightly different ways.

“Particularly”

We use “particularly” to single out something and to indicate how especially true it is in a certain situation.

Examples

1. I’m particularly interested in history.
2. She is particularly in love with Jamie.
3. We are particularly traveling to London.
4. Sandra is particularly afraid of the dark.
5. Scott is particularly moving to Egypt.

“Specially”

We use “specially” when something is carried out for a special purpose or special need.

Examples

1. The cake was specially made for your birthday.
2. That car was specially bought for you.
3. The room is specially prepared for our guests.
4. Lenora specially baked a cake for Jimmy.
5. Kimmy specially wore a beautiful dress to impress Johnny.

From this short lesson, you should be able to write and speak better while using these confusing adverbs. But they are no longer confusing to you, are they?. With the help of the examples in this lesson, you can use these words appropriately to express yourself. They will help you to say what you mean and mean what you say.