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.

"If anything, it has made us want us to run harder for him and finish the season off with something special," Cherries winger Marcus Tavernier told BBC Match of the Day.

From BBC • Apr. 18, 2026

I am the executor of a trust for my son with special needs.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 18, 2026

Meieran opened it for special events such as last Halloween, but it has otherwise been closed.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 18, 2026

Democrat Analilia Mejia has won the special election for a safely blue U.S.

From Salon • Apr. 18, 2026

“Follow me and stay together,” the tour guide said, and led them toward the special rooms and exhibits on the second floor.

From "The Way to Rio Luna" by Zoraida Cordova

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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