Cool MateNotably vs Specifically
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Notably
Top 2,000 (common)C1adverb
Specifically
Top 2,000 (common)B1adverb
| Notably | Specifically | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 /["/ˈnəʊtəbli/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ˈnəʊtəbli/"]/ | 🇬🇧 /["/spəˈsɪfɪkli/"]/🇺🇸 /["/spəˈsɪfɪkli/"]/ |
| Meaning | Especially or particularly. | In a clear and exact way. |
| Example | The house had many drawbacks, most notably its price. | The report specifically outlines the steps we need to take. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 2,000 (common) | Top 2,000 (common) |
| CEFR level | C1 | B1 |
| Part of speech | adverb | adverb |
| Collocations | notably absent, notably different, notably improved, notably larger, notably successful | specifically mention, specifically state, used specifically, specifically designed, specifically requested |
| Antonyms | insignificantly, unremarkably, commonly, ordinarily | generally, vaguely |
| Common mistakes | Using 'notably' in a question form incorrectly., Confusing with 'notable' as a noun., Placing 'notably' too far from the subject it modifies. | Mixing up with 'especially', which has a different meaning., Using as 'specific' instead of 'specifically'., Omitting it in sentences where it clarifies meaning. |
| Usage notes | Use 'notably' in formal writing or discussions to highlight important examples or points. It might feel too strong or unnecessary in casual conversations. | Use 'specifically' to clarify or provide detailed information about something. It is appropriate in both spoken and written contexts, but avoid it in overly casual conversations. |
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Frequently asked questions: Notably vs Specifically
What's the difference between Notably and Specifically?
Notably: Especially or particularly. Specifically: In a clear and exact way.
Which is more advanced: Notably and Specifically?
Notably is the highest level, at C1, on the CEFR scale.
Are Notably and Specifically the same CEFR level?
Notably: C1, Specifically: B1 on the CEFR scale.
What part of speech are Notably and Specifically?
Notably: adverb, Specifically: adverb.
Can you show an example of each?
Notably: The house had many drawbacks, most notably its price. Specifically: The report specifically outlines the steps we need to take.
Can I use Notably and Specifically interchangeably?
Not always. Notably and Specifically are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.