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.

"We're losing the species that are really rare and special here because of the excess nutrients," said Claire Newill, the organisation's Wessex deputy director.

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

A special prosecutor’s investigation into fast-tracked government approvals followed, protests mounted and Kushner pulled out.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

Even though new shareholders will own a slice of the company, Musk will keep almost all the decision-making power -- a common setup in tech, where founders often hold special "super-voting" shares.

From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026

The BBC announced Wednesday that it is not moving forward with a previously announced “Doctor Who” Christmas special.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 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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