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.

Special events was the logical, if not natural, next step.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 8, 2026

"We all know what tonight means to New Yorkers who have been waiting a long time for an opportunity like this," Special Agent Matt McCool told reporters.

From Barron's • Jun. 8, 2026

An official said the helicopter seen in the regional training was from the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, or SOAR.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 6, 2026

Emily is non-verbal, tube-fed and is a wheelchair user who attends Parkview Special School in Lisburn.

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026

It was so important that the team was about to board a small unmarked plane and fly to a top-secret facility outside of London for a week of mission-specific training alongside British Special Forces.

From "City Spies" by James Ponti

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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