1.
not particularly, not really
Used with negative verbs to indicate that something isn't special or significant. Often conveys indifference.
別に is an adverb used with negative predicates to mean "not particularly" or "not especially."
Usage
Almost always paired with a negative verb or adjective. It softens the negation, indicating that something is not special or noteworthy.
- 別に気にしない: not particularly bothered
- 別に難しくない: not especially difficult
- 別に欲しくない: don't especially want it
As a standalone response
Used alone (別に。), it means "not really" or "nothing special" and can sound dismissive or indifferent — similar to English "whatever" or a shrug. Common in casual speech, especially among younger speakers.
Etymology
From 別 (separate, distinct) + に. Literally "as something separate/special" — when negated, it means nothing stands out as special.
Watch out
Using 別に as a one-word reply can come across as rude or sulky, especially to elders or in formal situations.
Related Words
Compare:
別々 (separately)
Compare:
別途 (separately, additionally)
Compare:
何でもない (nothing special)
Compare:
とりたてて (particularly)