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 Liberal Party holds 173 of 343 seats in the national legislature, following special election wins in Toronto.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

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

From Science Daily • Apr. 14, 2026

"He suffered so much hunger here as a child. For the people of the neighborhood to receive a plate of food is special," he said.

From Barron's • Apr. 14, 2026

Results in a third special election are still unclear.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

I let Zara go ahead of me carrying the platter of her mom’s famous shish tawook and pita, with a box of gluten-free crackers she sent special for me, while I stop at the mailbox.

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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