The words “especial” and “special” may look and sound similar, but they have their own unique uses in the English language. Knowing the difference between them can improve your speaking and writing skills.
Many people use these words interchangeably without realizing it. However, using them correctly can make a big difference in your communication. Let’s look into what sets these words apart.
Especial and Special are two terms often confused in English. Both words share a common root but are used differently in modern English.
Special is a common term used to describe something that is different from others in a way that makes it better or unique. For example, “That was a special meal.” On the other hand, Especial is a more archaic term and largely obsolete today. It was used to emphasize a distinctive quality or an exceptional degree. For instance, “He has an especial dislike for crowded places.”
The Origins of Especial and Special
The words especial and special come from interesting backgrounds. They show how the English language has evolved. Their different beginnings and changes in use tell us about English vocabulary’s changing nature.
Historical Background
The word especial started from the Old French “especial.” This means “pre-eminent or important.” It came into English in the late-14th century. It shows the word’s early value. Its ongoing use in British English emphasizes its lasting impact.
Etymology and Evolution
Especial comes from the Latin “specialis,” meaning specific or particular. This shows its stable meaning over time. However, its use has changed slightly. On the other hand, special has changed more. It now often means something rare or exceptional.
Looking into especial and special teaches us about their history. It also shows us larger trends in how languages change. This includes how meanings in English shift over time.
What Does Especial Mean?
The word especial is an adjective that has a special job in English. It might not be very common today. Yet, it’s key in talking about something that is particularly notable or important.
Definition and Usage
An especial definition talks about qualities that stand out as unique and exceptional. Using especial means you’re highlighting certain exceptional qualities. This makes whatever you’re describing shine. It’s useful for making your descriptions more exact.
Example Sentences
Here are examples to help you see how especial is used:
- A pet that becomes very nippy when meeting new people might have an especial temperament.
- A teacher’s especial interest in helping new students shows how much they care.
What Does Special Mean?
Special is a word we often use in English. It describes things made for a specific reason or event. It’s a flexible term, showing something is above the usual in various situations.
Common Usage in English
The word special is well-loved and used a lot. It’s unique because it doesn’t need to follow a noun right away. This lets sentences highlight what makes an object or purpose unique more clearly.
Example Sentences
Here are some ways to use special in sentences:
- “Your sibling returning home after a long time can mark a special day for the family.”
- “An individual wearing an outfit that feels somewhat special can uplift their confidence during pivotal moments.”
- “The chef prepared a special dish to mark the restaurant’s anniversary.”
Using the word special like this shows its power to highlight importance and uniqueness. It’s about celebrating, boosting confidence, or making something stand out.
Differences Between Especial and Special
Knowing the difference between especial and special helps us communicate clearly. Each word has a unique role, even though they both suggest something uncommon. They work differently in sentences and contexts.
Especial is typically used before a noun, showing a noteworthy quality. It stresses the distinct or exceptional aspect of the subject. For instance, calling your pet’s behavior an “especial trait” means it stands out from the usual.
In contrast, special is more widely used and can highlight uniqueness on its own. You might refer to “a special occasion,” where special indicates something out of the ordinary without extra context.
What sets them apart is how they are placed and used. While special can describe something exceptional by itself, especial needs particular situations to show importance.
Comparing these words shows their different uses in English. Especial has a narrower scope, while special is adaptable, enriching our language.
Adverb Forms: Especially vs. Specially
Adverbs add meaning and emphasis to your writing. Especially and specially are two adverbs that are often mixed up. They have different meanings and uses. Let’s look at how and when to use each one.
Especially
Especially is used to point out something important or highlight a preference. It shows something is particularly significant. For example, you might like sunny days, but spring ones are your favorite. This word shows your specific liking in this case.
- Adverbial form: It makes sentences stand out by adding emphasis.
- Example: He enjoys outdoor activities, especially hiking in the mountains.
Specially
Specially, however, means something is done with a certain purpose in mind. It’s about custom actions or creations, like a dress made just for a party. Unlike especially, it’s more about uniqueness and custom touch.
- Adverbial use: Points to actions or things made for a special reason.
- Example: The chef prepared a dish specially for the guest of honor.
Knowing how to use these adverbs makes your writing sharper. While both especially and specially can enrich your text, picking the right one helps get your exact point across.
Usage Trends and Popularity
Looking at language trends, the word “especial” hasn’t changed much since it started. But, its use in the United States today is pretty rare. The Corpus of Contemporary American English (COCA) shows we prefer “special” much more.
“Special” is used more often, making “especial” less common now. For clear communication, choosing “special” is usually better. This word is easily understood in most situations.
Even though “especial” is less used in English, it’s still popular in Spanish. By using “special,” your speaking and writing will fit with today’s English. This ensures others can understand you well.
