Definitions

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.

RH said revenue was hurt by about $45 million tied to higher backorder and special order balances, which were about $75 million higher than the year-ago period due to tariff-related resourcing.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

Last month, Infantino told an economic conference that "we have to apply market rates" and that football had to adapt to this "very special market".

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

“Every tournament I add to my schedule right now feels special, and Berlin is no exception,” Williams said in a statement.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 11, 2026

It’s similar to what pickle brine does for chicken: people notice something special, but they can’t quite identify it.

From Salon • Jun. 11, 2026

Even with his family around him, Father—George—carried a special lonely.

From "Will’s Race for Home" by Jewell Parker Rhodes

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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