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.

Administration lifts flight restrictions hours after issuing the pause for ‘special security reasons.’

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 12, 2026

So, an international team of astronomers began to tune the radio telescopes, searching the sky for the ‘special message’ from stars other than our Sun.

From Space Scoop • Nov. 28, 2025

“Absolutely not! The venue is a big part of both the Center and the Villa. That is what makes the Getty Museums so ‘special.’

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 18, 2025

Cannon noted that “the title ‘special counsel’ is of fairly recent vintage.

From Salon • Jul. 16, 2024

“Our ‘special privileges’ begin tomorrow,” Reynie told the girls.

From "The Mysterious Benedict Society" by Trenton Lee Stewart

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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