Difference between specially and especially

Hi,
I know that one is more used than the other, but what is the difference between "specially" and "especially"? It's subtle and I keep getting confused.

That's an excellent question Daniel!!

I know the difference in usage but I don't know if I could explain it intelligently:p:p

Here is one explanation:

Special means "particular, distinguished in a distinct way, or designed for a particular purpose." Specially means "particularly, in a disintguishing manner, or for a particular purpose."

Especial is an uncommon adjective. Especially, its adverb form, is much more common.

In every use, especial can be replaced by special with no change in meaning. The word special does have some meanings especial does not have, such as "of or relating to a species" and as a euphemism for handicapped.

However, almost nobody uses the word "especial."

I think it mainly depends on how the sentence is formed.

EX: Today is a special day. Today is especially important.

Thank you, Vicente. You also added the difference between adjectives and adverbs. It's funny how they got all mixed.

I always kept confusing these words, but I always thought "special" sounded more natural or "English-like" than especial. Just a matter of preference perhaps.

I agree Franco. Especial is not heard that often but there are some sentence formations in which you would use it. I can only think of instances in which it follows the subject. Placed before the subject it sounds odd.

EX: This is a day especial.

It just would not sound right to say "This is an especial day."

99.99% of the time people would say "This day is special" or "This is a special day".

Yes, I totally agree with @Franco.

I know the difference between the specially and especially these two are little bit difference,the usage of these is vary...
especially is formal and specially is informal..