Inklingo

How to Say "expressly" in Spanish

English → Spanish

específicamente

adverbB1general
Use this word when you want to emphasize a specific detail, item, or time, indicating precision or a clear intention to narrow down a subject.

Examples

Necesito saber específicamente qué día empieza el curso.

I need to know specifically which day the course starts.

expresamente

/ex-pre-sa-MEN-te//ekspresaˈmente/

adverbB1general
Use this word when you have come or done something for a particular, stated purpose or reason, often implying a deliberate action taken for that specific goal.
A king pointing firmly to a specific spot on a scroll to show a clear and formal command.

Examples

He venido expresamente para hablar contigo.

I have come expressly/specifically to talk to you.

El reglamento prohíbe expresamente fumar en el edificio.

The regulations expressly prohibit smoking in the building.

Lo pedí expresamente sin picante.

I specifically asked for it without spicy sauce.

Adverb formation

This word is formed by taking the feminine form of the adjective 'expreso' (which is 'expresa') and adding the ending '-mente'. This is how Spanish turns many adjectives into adverbs.

Double Stress Rule

When you say this word, it sounds like it has two pulses of energy: one on 'PRE' and the main one on 'MEN'. This is typical for words ending in '-mente'.

Thinking it means 'quickly'

Mistake: “Using 'expresamente' to mean fast (like an express train).”

Correction: Use 'rápidamente' for speed. 'Expresamente' means 'with clear intent' or 'specifically,' not fast.

Spelling confusion

Mistake: “Spelling it with a 'c' like 'expressamente' in English.”

Correction: Remember that Spanish uses 'x' but avoids the double 's'. It is always 'expresamente'.

Confusing Specificity vs. Purpose

Learners often confuse 'específicamente' and 'expresamente' because both can translate to 'specifically'. Remember that 'específicamente' focuses on a precise detail, while 'expresamente' highlights the deliberate reason or purpose behind an action.

Related Translations

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