Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Particularly" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "particularly", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
特に
とくに (toku ni)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
取り立てて
とりたてて (toritatete)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "particularly" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 特に and 取り立てて.
In Japanese, 特に (とくに (toku ni)) is typically associated with "particularly, especially" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents An adverb used to emphasize a specific item, person, or situation among others. It highlights that something is more so or stands out compared to others..
On the other hand, 取り立てて (とりたてて (toritatete)) maps to "particularly; especially; (not) notably" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often used in negative sentences. A literal translation of "particularly" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "特に"
私は果物の中で、特にりんごが好きです。
Among fruits, I especially like apples.
Bilingual Context for "取り立てて"
取り立てて問題はない。
There is no particular problem.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "私は果物の中で、 ＿＿＿ りんごが好きです。" (Meaning: "Among fruits, I especially like apples.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "特に" fits here because it means "particularly, especially" in the context of: "Among fruits, I especially like apples.". "取り立てて" represents "particularly; especially; (not) notably".