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.

Bellingham's ability and history of producing special moments in an England shirt is unquestionable.

From BBC • Jun. 12, 2026

Ms. Morris, prized for her children’s books, has always shown a special talent for painting nature with narrative urgency.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 12, 2026

Tropicalia group Healing Gems and the Afro-Latin fusion band Jungle Fire will also make special appearances, all while DJ Liza Richardson keeps the groove going.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 12, 2026

The special election in the Makerfield constituency on Thursday is also expected to dominate U.K. markets next week.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 12, 2026

I endowed that word “all” with special meaning, and pressed dresses and packed trunks in a delirium of anticipation.

From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom

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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