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.

Michael: I definitely want to stay up, but I can't deny that two trips to Wembley and the opportunity of seeing us score a goal there would be very special and memorable.

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2026

Tehran said it had shot down the F-15 warplane, while US media reported United States special forces had rescued one of its two crew members, with the other still missing.

From Barron's • Apr. 4, 2026

"When you are an Olympic champion you are a special fighter," said Shields.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

Otto von Bismarck’s special providence for “fools, drunks, and the United States of America” may be coming to the aid of the current incumbent.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

Maybe he could rig up some kind of shelter, so that Abby would have a special place to wait while he was gone.

From "Earthquake Terror" by Peg Kehret

special

Example Sentences

Related Words