尤其

• Pinyin: yóu qí
• Hanzi breakdown: 尤 = pictograph suggesting emphasis; 其 = a basket, now used as a pronoun/particle

Meaning

Especially; particularly. Used to single out something as more notable or important than others.

Functions as an adverb to emphasize a particular item from a group. Often paired with 是 as 尤其是 for even stronger emphasis. Similar to 特别 but more formal in register. Common in both written and spoken language.

Examples

1. 我喜欢水果，尤其是草莓。 I like fruit, especially strawberries.
2. 这个地区的气候很好，尤其适合老年人居住。 The climate in this area is great, especially suitable for elderly people to live in.
3. 他各科成绩都不错，尤其是数学特别出色。 His grades are good in all subjects, but math is particularly outstanding.

Usage Guide

Context: emphasis, comparison, everyday

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 我喜欢运动，尤其是游泳。(I like sports, especially swimming.)
• 这里的风景很美，尤其是春天。(The scenery here is beautiful, especially in spring.)

Don't Say

• 尤其我喜欢游泳 (Word order error — 尤其 should come after the general statement, before the specific item)

Origin & History

Classical compound of 尤 (especially, fault) and 其 (that, its). 尤 originally meant 'fault' but evolved to mean 'outstanding' and then 'especially.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal