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.

Polestar made its public debut through a merger with a special purpose acquisition company in June 2022.

From Barron's • Apr. 17, 2026

Lori Inglis Hall’s accomplished debut, “The Shock of the Light,” examines the siblings’ special bond while charting their separate fates.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

The 10 and the 110 are literally the crossroads of the city, so it’s really poised to be a special building.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

“Above the garage, a charming self-contained guest apartment completes this very special estate,” adds the listing.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 17, 2026

“Today I’ll be taking you into some of our special rooms, like the latest rare-book room and our collection of city maps. Before we get started, do you have any questions?”

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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