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.

Troccaz, who serves as France's special envoy to the Western Balkans, enjoys support from the United Kingdom and Germany.

From Barron's • Jun. 4, 2026

"You can immediately see those kinds of footballers who are touched by magic that says: you are going to be special."

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026

That is what makes Global Beatles Day so special.

From Salon • Jun. 4, 2026

Men following a special diet to manage high blood pressure were less than half as likely to add salt compared with those who were not following such a diet.

From Science Daily • Jun. 4, 2026

In it she tricked the giants into giving her a special quill and ink to write stories.

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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