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.

She retired from The Wall Street Journal in 2016 and is now a freelance contributor to WSJ special reports.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

Real Madrid visit Bayern Munich on Wednesday knowing they must produce something special to overturn a 2-1 first-leg deficit and keep their Champions League dream alive.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

This remarkable effect occurs at a special condition known as the "Dirac point," where graphene sits at a boundary between being a metal and an insulator.

From Science Daily • Apr. 15, 2026

Shahniani says his home feels special because so many friends helped with the design, the art on the walls and even his clothing.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 15, 2026

“These are very good pieces as well—not quite as special, but larger, so they would make a charming display on your wall.”

From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu

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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