Translation guide
The English adverb "specially" is used to indicate that something is done for a particular purpose, in a particular way, or to a particular degree. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various adverbs and phrases depending on the nuance.
Expressing that something is done or made specifically for a certain purpose, person, or occasion.
The most direct and common translation for 'specially'. It means 'specially' or 'particularly' and is used when something is done in a way that is different from usual, often for a specific reason or person.
このケーキはあなたのために特別に作りました。
I made this cake specially for you.
特別に許可をもらいました。
I got special permission.
Implies that someone went out of their way or took the trouble to do something specially. It often carries a nuance of gratitude or slight apology for the effort.
わざわざ来てくれてありがとう。
Thank you for coming specially (all the way here).
A pattern meaning 'for the sake of' or 'for'. It can be used to indicate that something is done specially for someone or something.
これは君のために買ったんだ。
I bought this specially for you.
Emphasizing that something is more than usual, or that something stands out. Often interchangeable with 'especially'.
Means 'particularly' or 'especially'. It is very common and can often be used where English uses 'specially' to mean 'more than usual'.
今日は特に寒い。
It's specially cold today.
この点が特に重要だ。
This point is specially important.
Also used for 'especially' or 'particularly', but often implies an exception or special treatment.
彼は特別に頭がいい。
He is specially smart.
Describing that something is done in a way that is different from the norm, often with care or uniqueness.
Again, the standard translation. It can describe a special method or treatment.
この料理は特別に調理されています。
This dish is specially prepared.
Literally 'in a special way'. More explicit, but less common than the adverb.
特別な方法で訓練された犬です。
It's a specially trained dog.
Both can translate 'specially' or 'especially'. 特に (とくに) is more common for 'particularly' in general statements, while 特別に (とくべつに) often implies an exception or special arrangement. For example, 特に好き (I especially like it) vs. 特別に許可する (to specially permit).
While 特別に is a direct translation, in many cases where English uses 'specially' for emphasis, Japanese might simply use 特に or even omit the adverb if the context is clear. For instance, 'I came specially to see you' can be naturally expressed as 会いに来たよ without わざわざ if the effort is obvious.