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.

Under growing pressure, the government appointed a special investigator to probe whether current and former soldiers should face criminal charges.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

Appeal judges have reduced the damages previously awarded to a former pupil who said he was repeatedly restrained at a private residential special school.

From BBC • Apr. 6, 2026

The accounts would still have to follow all the special Trump account rules.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

Anyone can say they are a tax preparer without any special training, so you want to be sure to look for the ones who have designation that show they are licensed.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 6, 2026

“These are very good pieces as well—not quite as special, but larger, so they would make a charming display on your wall.”

From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu

special

Example Sentences

Related Words