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.

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

This is the first time in Canada that a majority was formed through a combination of special elections and defections to the governing party.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

Five of them, including Ghanbari, later changed their minds and returned home along with the rest of the team and were given a hero's welcome at a special ceremony in central Tehran on March 19.

From Barron's • Apr. 13, 2026

There’s a special, frictional magic to creative teamwork — Laurel and Hardy, Nichols and May, Powell and Pressburger, Rankin and Bass — amplified when the teammates are linked by blood.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 13, 2026

“Would you trust anyone with such a place? A place that is special and beautiful and full of wonders?”

From "The Way to Rio Luna" by Zoraida Cordova

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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