HSK 7-9
分外
fènwài
Especially; particularly
Structure
分外 + Adjective / Psychological Verb
How it works
The word '分外' is an adverb used to indicate a degree that exceeds the normal or expected level, typically translated as 'especially' or 'particularly'. It is most frequently used in written or formal contexts to describe feelings, atmospheres, or qualities that stand out due to specific circumstances.
Examples
中秋之夜，月色分外明亮。
Zhōngqiū zhī yè, yuèsè fènwài míngliàng.
On the night of the Mid-Autumn Festival, the moonlight is exceptionally bright.
身处异国他乡，他分外思念亲人。
Shēn chǔ yìguó tāxiāng, tā fènwài sīniàn qīnrén.
Being in a foreign land, he misses his family particularly much.
换上这身衣服，她显得分外精神。
Huàn shàng zhè shēn yīfú, tā xiǎnde fènwài jīngshén.
Putting on these clothes, she looks exceptionally energetic.
Common mistakes
Do not use '分外' for negative or mundane descriptions; it is usually reserved for positive qualities or intense emotions in formal speech.
Tip
Think of '分外' as 'extra-ordinary' (outside of the normal portion/limit). It is a more literary synonym for '更加' (gèngjiā) or '特别' (tèbié).
More HSK 7-9 grammar
See 分外 in real Chinese
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