special

[spesh-uhl] / ˈspɛʃ əl /

ADJECTIVE

distinguished, distinctive; important in own way

Synonyms

STRONGEST

appropriate certain different exceptional exclusive extraordinary individual limited main major memorable particular peculiar personal primary proper rare significant specialized specific unique unusual

STRONG

best characteristic chief choice express first gala set smashing sole

WEAK

defined definite designated determinate earmarked especial festive marked momentous out of the ordinary red-letter reserved restricted select uncommon unreal

Antonyms

STRONGEST

OK common commonplace conventional familiar general improper indefinite insignificant like minor normal ordinary regular secondary similar standard uncertain unimportant unlimited unnoteworthy unrestricted unsuitable usual

STRONG

least worst

WEAK

indistinctive undistinguished

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

To play Salieri opposite a fellow Welshman as Mozart - a role that has meant so much to me - feels very special indeed.

From BBC • Apr. 23, 2026

The note adds that management’s risk management means that capital returns are skewed toward buybacks rather than special dividends.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 23, 2026

Former CEO Neugebauer and his family hold 24.1% of Fermi shares, giving them significant sway to trigger a special meeting.

From Barron's • Apr. 22, 2026

There were people who I respect, people from companies we tried to sell the special to, who said, “I wish there were more jokes per minute in those parts.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2026

Over the years, I’ve mastered the ability to only see the good parts of Mom —the sparkly, loving parts that made me feel special.

From "South of Somewhere" by Kalena Miller

Vocabulary lists containing special

"The Lotus Seed"

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Century 21 Accounting, 9e, Chapters 4-7

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"Glencoe Accounting: Real-World Applications & Connections," Vocabulary from Chapter 11

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