Translation guide
The English adverb "specially" is used to indicate that something is done for a particular purpose, in a particular way, or to a particular degree. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various adverbs and phrases depending on the nuance.
Expressing that something is done or made specifically for a certain purpose, person, or occasion.
The most direct and common translation for 'specially'. It means 'specially' or 'particularly' and is used when something is done in a way that is different from usual, often for a specific reason or person.
I made this cake specially for you.
I got special permission.
Implies that someone went out of their way or took the trouble to do something specially. It often carries a nuance of gratitude or slight apology for the effort.
Thank you for coming specially (all the way here).
A pattern meaning 'for the sake of' or 'for'. It can be used to indicate that something is done specially for someone or something.
I bought this specially for you.
Emphasizing that something is more than usual, or that something stands out. Often interchangeable with 'especially'.
Means 'particularly' or 'especially'. It is very common and can often be used where English uses 'specially' to mean 'more than usual'.
It's specially cold today.
Also used for 'especially' or 'particularly', but often implies an exception or special treatment.
He is specially smart.
Describing that something is done in a way that is different from the norm, often with care or uniqueness.
Both can translate 'specially' or 'especially'. 特に (とくに) is more common for 'particularly' in general statements, while 特別に (とくべつに) often implies an exception or special arrangement. For example, 特に好き (I especially like it) vs. 特別に許可する (to specially permit).
While 特別に is a direct translation, in many cases where English uses 'specially' for emphasis, Japanese might simply use 特に or even omit the adverb if the context is clear. For instance, 'I came specially to see you' can be naturally expressed as 会いに来たよ without わざわざ if the effort is obvious.
This point is specially important.
It's a specially trained dog.