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別に
betsu ni
not particularly
別に、構わないよ。
It doesn’t particularly matter to me.
informal
not particularly; not especially; not really; not in any special way
A: これ、食べる？ B: 別に。
A: Do you want to eat this? B: Not particularly.
別に、あなたのせいじゃないよ。
It’s not really your fault.
Used to express indifference or lack of strong feeling about something. Often implies 'it doesn’t matter to me' or 'I’m okay with it.'
formal
separately; apart; individually
これらは別に扱われるべきだ。
These should be handled separately.
Less common meaning, typically used in formal contexts.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Contrast with 特に
「別に」 expresses indifference or lack of strong feeling, while 「特に」 means 'especially' or 'particularly.' For example, 「別に、好きじゃない」 (I don’t particularly like it) vs. 「特に好きだ」 (I especially like it).
Gold Rule
Casual vs. Formal Tone
「別に」 is informal and should not be used in formal writing or speech unless quoting casual conversation. In formal contexts, use 「別に扱う」 (to handle separately) or 「個別に」 (individually).
Word Origin
From the adverbial form of the adjective 別 (betsu, 'separate, different') + に (ni, adverbial particle). The adverbial use to mean 'not particularly' developed in colloquial speech.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in casual conversation to soften a statement or express mild indifference. Often paired with いいよ (it’s fine) or 構わない (it doesn’t matter). Avoid using in formal writing unless quoting speech.
Word Breakdown
別
separate, different
rootに
adverbial particle
suffix和英辞典