especially

The word “especially” means to a greater degree than usual; particularly. In plain terms, used to point out that something applies more strongly to one thing than others.

“Especially” is pronounced ih-SPEHSH-lee (/ɪˈspɛʃ.(ə.)li/ in IPA).

Here is “especially” used in a sentence: “The traffic was bad, especially near the stadium.”

“Especially” is an adverb.

The word “especially” comes from Latin. From "especial" plus the adverb suffix -ly — "especial" itself traces back to Latin specialis, "of a particular kind.".

“Especially” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

"Especially" means to a greater degree or particularly, as in "I love fruit, especially mangoes." "Specially" means for a specific purpose, as in "a cake made specially for you." If you can replace the word with "particularly," use "especially"; if you mean "for a special reason," use "specially." They overlap but are not identical.

"The garden is beautiful, especially in spring" shows the meaning: spring stands out above the other seasons. It highlights one thing as more notable than the rest. Another example is "he was especially kind that day," meaning kinder than usual, to a greater degree than normal.

Yes, though it is less common. "Especially" often works best mid-sentence, right before the thing it emphasises. Starting with it is acceptable for effect, as in "Especially in winter, the roads can be dangerous," but many writers prefer to place it closer to the word or idea it singles out.