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.

If you bought into a 1-year CD in May 2025 that has now come due, you may have enjoyed a 4.5% interest rate, or even higher if you got a special deal.

From MarketWatch • May 11, 2026

As city revenues shrank, spending on elementary and middle schools alike dropped by more than 10%, though local military forces received millions of dollars in special funding.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 11, 2026

But Man v Horse, held every year in Llanwrtyd Wells in Powys, will always have a very special place in her heart after she won her only trophy for running.

From BBC • May 10, 2026

Doctors often recommend regular physical activity to help manage it, but many people struggle to maintain long-term exercise habits, especially when workouts require gym memberships, special equipment, dedicated spaces, or ongoing coaching.

From Science Daily • May 10, 2026

He told her news from school and ate some of the special dinner.

From "Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes" by Eleanor Coerr

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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