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.

In Melbourne, Harry was special guest at the launch of a report into the mental health of fathers of young children, produced by the charity Movember.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

Last month, Baroness Bull asked the government what steps were being taken to raise awareness of dyscalculia among educators, including special educational needs co-ordinators, and to ensure dyscalculic pupils had specialist support.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

However, this explanation does not apply to a special group of proton-rich isotopes.

From Science Daily • Apr. 14, 2026

Chesney is known for his emphasis on special teams and the Bruins ran drills throughout Tuesday’s practice focused on that phase of the game.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 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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