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especially

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adverb British English pronunciation: especially /ɪˈspeʃ(ə)li/
  1. 1
    used when mentioning conditions that make something more relevant, important, or true

    It was a very cold house, especially in winter.

    especially as/because/since:

    He did not want to upset his father, especially as his mother was so ill.

    especially if/when:

    You'll need to book your ticket in advance, especially if you want to reserve a seat.

    Thesaurus entry for this meaning of especially
  2. 2
    used for emphasizing that a quality or feeling exists to a great degree

    We're especially concerned about the rise in tuition fees.

    I especially like the idea of using music in the classroom.

    Thesaurus entry for this meaning of especially
  3. 3
    used for showing that what you are saying applies to one person or thing more than others

    India, especially the south, has immense potential to attract tourists.

    especially not someone/something:

    Don't talk to anyone about this – especially not my mother.

    Thesaurus entry for this meaning of especially
  4. 4
    for a particular purpose or for a particular person
    especially for:

    a service especially for local people

    especially to do something:

    Martin has come especially to see you, you know.

    Thesaurus entry for this meaning of especially

This is the British English definition of especially. View American English definition of especially.

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