Translation guide
The English word "especially" is used to single out something as more important, more true, or more relevant than others. In Japanese, this idea is expressed through adverbs, particles, and sentence patterns rather than a single direct equivalent. The best choice depends on whether you are emphasizing a particular item, highlighting a reason, or making a comparison.
You want to say that something is particularly true or important in a specific case, often within a broader context.
The most common and versatile translation. It can be used in both spoken and written Japanese to mean 'especially' or 'particularly'.
I especially like this movie.
It's especially hot today.
Similar to 特に but slightly more formal and emphatic. Often used in writing or careful speech.
This issue is especially important.
A more literary or formal equivalent of 特に. Rare in everyday conversation.
The spring scenery is especially beautiful.
You want to highlight that something is done or true specifically because of a certain reason.
Use 特に with から (because) to mean 'especially because'. This pattern clearly links the emphasis to a reason.
Let's prepare thoroughly, especially because he's coming.
Attached to a noun or reason, it means 'precisely because' or 'especially because'. It implies that the reason makes the situation more significant.
You want to point out one member of a group as being notably different or more relevant.
Literally 'among them', used to single out one thing from a group. Very natural in conversation.
Among fruits, I especially like strawberries.
The topic particle は can imply 'especially' by contrasting one thing with others. Often used with 特に for clarity.
Beer is especially delicious in summer.
You want to downplay something or say it's not particularly the case.
The standard way to say 'not especially'. 特に is used with a negative verb or adjective.
I'm not especially busy today.
There's no particular problem.
More casual and often used to mean 'not really' or 'not especially'. Can sound dismissive.
I don't especially want to go.
Both mean 'especially', but とりわけ is more emphatic and formal. 特に is safe for most situations. Use とりわけ in writing or when you want to stress exceptionality.
All the dishes at this restaurant are delicious, but the ramen is especially exquisite.
The word 特別に (tokubetsu ni) means 'specially' in the sense of 'for a special purpose' or 'exceptionally', not 'especially' as an intensifier. Using it to translate 'especially' often sounds unnatural.
Intended: I especially like this movie. (Unnatural)
I like all animals, especially cats.
It's important to stay hydrated, especially in summer.
I don't especially want to go out tonight.
Especially because I had high expectations, the disappointment was great.
彼の作品はどれも良いが、中でもこの小説が素晴らしい。
All his works are good, but this novel is especially wonderful.
I especially like this movie. (Natural)