Translation guide
The phrase "in particular" is used to single out a specific person, thing, or detail from a larger group or context. In Japanese, this is most commonly expressed with adverbs like 特に (toku ni) or phrases like とりわけ (toriwake). The choice depends on formality and emphasis.
To emphasize that something applies especially to one person, thing, or situation among others.
The most common and versatile way to say 'in particular'. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese, from casual to formal contexts.
私は特にこの映画が好きです。
I like this movie in particular.
今日は特に寒いですね。
It's especially cold today, isn't it?
A slightly more formal or literary alternative to 特に. Often used in writing or formal speech to mean 'among others' or 'above all'.
この地域はとりわけ農業が盛んです。
This region is prosperous in agriculture in particular.
Literally 'among them', used to pick out one item from a group already mentioned. Common in both speech and writing.
果物が好きで、中でもイチゴが一番好きです。
I like fruit, and strawberries in particular are my favorite.
A literary and somewhat old-fashioned expression meaning 'among other things' or 'especially'. Rare in modern conversation.
彼の作品はわけても初期のものが評価されている。
His works, in particular the early ones, are highly regarded.
To give a specific example or detail that illustrates a general statement.
Again, 特に works perfectly here. It can introduce a specific instance that stands out.
彼はスポーツが得意で、特にサッカーが上手です。
He's good at sports, soccer in particular.
Means 'specifically' or 'to be specific'. Used when you want to give a concrete example after a general statement.
問題がいくつかあります。具体的には、予算と人員です。
There are several problems. In particular, the budget and personnel.
特に is the everyday word for 'especially/in particular'. とりわけ is more formal and often used in writing or speeches. In casual conversation, 特に is almost always the better choice.
特に問題はありません。
There's no problem in particular.
とりわけ重要な点は次の通りです。
The points of particular importance are as follows.
While 特に is very common, using it in every sentence can sound repetitive. In some contexts, you can simply omit it if the meaning is clear from context, or use other structures like 〜の中でも.