word choice - "Specially" vs "especially"


When should each of them be used?



Answer



By rearranging a sentence, you can figure out what your intention is. Remember that "specially" and "especially" are adverbs, so try to figure out what they mean for the verb.


Also remember that "especially" is the adverb of the adjective "especial", which means "unique".


For instance:




  • He has a specially made key. Making the key was special. (Replaced by an adjective.)

  • The key was made especially for him. Making the key was uniquely done for him. (Can't be replaced by the adjective.)



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