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 just so proud of Esme and the legacy that she's got. I don't think she realises how special she is, but we'll never forget."

From BBC • May 23, 2026

It was not the only Britpop anthem to get a Salah-inspired re-write that season, with London band Dodgy's Good Enough providing the tune for a terrace chant the player calls "something special".

From BBC • May 22, 2026

The Times reached out to TSA for clarity on what those special instructions are, but officials did not provide an explanation.

From Los Angeles Times • May 22, 2026

But the bigger problem could be that they are competing in a workforce where having a bachelor’s degree isn’t nearly as special as it once was.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026

He said, “You’re always complaining that you’ve got too much to do. This is your time to relax. A special family dinner.”

From "Red Flags and Butterflies" by Sheryl Azzam

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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