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 accounts would still have to follow all the special Trump account rules.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

“We look for some things that we love, and Mario really holds a special place in so many generations’ hearts, from the first Nintendo to kids that grew up and played it on their Wii.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 6, 2026

Young people aged between 10 and 18, as well as those with special educational needs and disabilities up to the age of 25, will also be able to access services at the youth centres.

From BBC • Apr. 6, 2026

Officials say the final rescue required a complex operation involving special forces, aircraft, and intelligence support, carried out amid active threats.

From Salon • Apr. 5, 2026

I write about how the mailbox is back now, but it’s nowhere near as special as I remembered.

From "Keeping Pace" by Laurie Morrison

special

Example Sentences

Related Words