Especially and specially are often confused in formal writing.  This misuse can create some ambiguity. 

Especially is an adverb.  It used to show special emphasis.

Ex. She was especially kind to me the other day.

Specially is also an adverb.  However, it is used either to show something in a special manner or to show something of a greater extent or grade.

Ex. She had her wedding flowers specially arranged.

In addition to our website, we recommend the following site: The Common Errors in English Page at http://www.wsu.edu:8080/~brians/errors/errors.html.  This site contains an alphabetical list of common errors found in the English language.

Test your understanding of the correct use of especially and specially by choosing the correct word to complete the following sentences:

1. We need food, a lot of ink, and a great deal of paper, (especially, specially) food.

2. He said we must (especially, specially) arrange the table for the king.

3. She had that cake (especially, specially) made for his homecoming party.

4. To breathe is (especially, specially) important to the body’s respiratory system.

5. John is (especially, specially) important to the team.

6. The music was (especially, specially) chosen for tonight.

Answers

1. We need food, a lot of ink, and a great deal of paper, especially food.

2. He said we must specially arrange the table for the king.

3. She had that cake specially made for his coming home party.

4. To breathe is especially important to the body’s respiratory system.

5. John is especially important to the team.

6. The music was specially chosen for tonight.

Grammatically Correct is a grammar tip of the week created by Academic Center Peer Writing Tutors at the University of Houston-Victoria in Victoria, Texas.

Comments about this newsletter should be directed to Summer Leibensperger, leibenspergers@uhv.edu.

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