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.

The company this week rolled out ads touting mobile service, where roving technicians, equipped with special service vans, travel to wherever customers are and perform diagnostics, maintenance and some repairs on site.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 6, 2026

County include a special tax for cleaning up stormwater, and that imposing new regulations in this way doesn’t make sense.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 5, 2026

But here, we’ve got exactly one area in which Musk has turned out to not be special.

From Slate • Jun. 5, 2026

"In celebration of our Country's 250 Year History, we will be bringing you, LIVE, the Greatest Rally, EVER! It will be special at every level — A Rally to end all Rallies!"

From Barron's • Jun. 4, 2026

But the spirits made time to spell out a quick message—Kate and her mother would lead a special private circle at the Strong home later that same night.

From "American Spirits" by Barb Rosenstock

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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