Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Especially" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "especially", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
特に
とくに (tokuni)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
殊に
ことに (koto ni)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "especially" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 特に and 殊に.
In Japanese, 特に (とくに (tokuni)) is typically associated with "especially; particularly" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents ある事柄が他のものと比べて際立っていること、または強調したいときに使います。副詞です。.
On the other hand, 殊に (ことに (koto ni)) maps to "especially; particularly; above all" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Emphasizes a specific item or aspect among several, highlighting its uniqueness or importance. Similar to 特に, but can sometimes carry a slightly more formal or literary tone. 数あるものの中から、特に抜きんでていたり、重要であったりするものを強調する際に用いられます。. A literal translation of "especially" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "特に"
私は特に甘いものが好きです。
I especially like sweets.
Bilingual Context for "殊に"
私は夏が好きですが、殊に夜の花火大会が好きです。
I like summer, but especially the night firework festivals.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "私は ＿＿＿ 甘いものが好きです。" (Meaning: "I especially like sweets.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "特に" fits here because it means "especially; particularly" in the context of: "I especially like sweets.". "殊に" represents "especially; particularly; above all".