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.

"He suffered so much hunger here as a child. For the people of the neighborhood to receive a plate of food is special," he said.

From Barron's • Apr. 14, 2026

The Liberal Party holds 173 of 343 seats in the national legislature, following special election wins in Toronto.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

Greatrex called it "a historic step for clean power, industrial growth and skilled jobs in Wales", saying Wylfa was a "very special site with unique strengths".

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

The producer and DJ added that she will have “have special Pokémon visuals and song edits just for these shows.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 13, 2026

A father who was a general, who would have special ways to find out what happened in France.

From "The Brightwood Code" by Monica Hesse

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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