especially so

USAGE SUMMARY

"especially so" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to emphasize a point, or to show that something is particularly true. For example: "He had been struggling in his classes, but the extra help he received helped him to make great improvements. His math scores, especially so, showed remarkable progress."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Indeed, especially so.

The Guardian - Opinion

Especially so in Turkey.

The Guardian - Opinion

Panda cubs, especially so.

The Washington Post

But it was especially so tonight.

The New York Times

That is especially so for athletes.

The New York Times

This is especially so in Europe.

The Economist

Especially so in the case of Tunisia.

The New Yorker

"Especially so many of them".

The New York Times - Sports

Especially so many unusual plays.

The New Yorker

"Yes, but not especially so.

The Guardian

Perhaps especially so for boys.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "especially so" to add emphasis to a preceding statement, indicating that the current instance is more pronounced or significant than others. It's effective for highlighting specific examples or situations.

Common error

Avoid using "especially so" in very simple or obvious sentences. It is best suited for complex ideas where emphasis is truly needed to clarify the degree or extent of something.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "especially so" functions as an adverbial intensifier, modifying a preceding clause to emphasize that the statement is particularly true or applicable in the given context. Ludwig highlights its versatility in adding emphasis across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "especially so" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to emphasize a preceding statement, highlighting its particular significance or truth. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical correctness and broad applicability make it a valuable tool in various writing contexts. While it's prevalent in news and media, science, and formal business settings, mindful usage is key to avoiding redundancy in simpler sentences. Consider alternatives like "particularly true" or "especially the case" for nuanced expression. Using "especially so" effectively enhances clarity and impact in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

especially the case

More explicitly states that something is particularly applicable.

especially relevant

Emphasizes the enhanced significance or bearing of a subject.

particularly true

Focuses on the truth aspect rather than general emphasis.

notably the case

Highlights that something is worth noting or observing.

specifically true

Highlights that something is correct in a precise manner.

remarkably so

Emphasizes the surprising or exceptional nature of the fact.

particularly relevant

Focuses on the pertinence or applicability of a subject.

uniquely so

Implies that the situation is distinct and without parallel.

primarily in this case

Indicates that something is mainly applicable in the stated situation.

chiefly in that regard

Suggests something is mainly pertinent or important in a specific aspect.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "especially so" in a sentence?

Use "especially so" to emphasize that a particular aspect of something is more significant or noticeable than others. Ensure the preceding statement sets the context for what you are emphasizing. For instance, "The project required careful planning; this was "especially so" given the tight deadline".

What are some alternatives to "especially so"?

Alternatives include phrases like "particularly true", "notably the case", or "especially the case", depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Each has slightly different connotations, so consider the context.

Is it ever incorrect to use "especially so"?

While grammatically correct, "especially so" can be redundant in very simple sentences where the emphasis is already clear. Overuse can diminish its impact, so use it judiciously.

What's the difference between "especially so" and "particularly"?

"Especially so" is an adverbial phrase that emphasizes a preceding statement, whereas "particularly" is an adverb that modifies a specific word or phrase. For example, "The weather was cold, especially so at night" versus "The weather was particularly cold".