Meaning
特别是 is used to single out or emphasize one item, person, or situation from a larger group. It draws special attention to something that stands out or is more noteworthy than others. The phrase literally means 'specially is' and functions to narrow focus onto a specific example.
Usage
Native speakers use 特别是 in both spoken and written contexts when listing examples and wanting to highlight one as especially important or relevant. It typically appears mid-sentence after a general statement, followed by the specific case being emphasized. Common in explanations, descriptions, and argumentative contexts.
Examples
- 01我喜欢吃水果，特别是苹果和香蕉。, .I like eating fruit, especially apples and bananas.
- 02这个城市很美，特别是在秋天的时候。, .This city is beautiful, especially in the autumn.
Characters
Common collocations
- 特别是在especially in/at
- 特别是当especially when
- 特别是对于especially for/regarding
Origin
Formed from 特别 (special, particular) plus the copula 是 (to be), creating an emphatic marker that literally means 'what is special is' or 'specially/particularly it is'.