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.

For Infantino, this tournament holds a special place.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

The corporation announced last year that there would be a festive special in 2026, but confirmed on Wednesday that it will no longer proceed.

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

Joining her are Josh Garrett-Davis, curator of Western American history, and Armando Pulido, assistant curator for special projects.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

Even though new shareholders will own a slice of the company, Musk will keep almost all the decision-making power -- a common setup in tech, where founders often hold special "super-voting" shares.

From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026

“Um…I mean we kinda have a special bond? She calls me her mini-me sometimes.”

From "South of Somewhere" by Kalena Miller

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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