Definition of especialnext
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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective especial differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of especial are individual, particular, special, and specific. While all these words mean "of or relating to one thing or class," especial may add implications of preeminence or preference.

a matter of especial importance

Where would individual be a reasonable alternative to especial?

Although the words individual and especial have much in common, individual implies unequivocal reference to one of a class or group.

valued each individual opinion

In what contexts can particular take the place of especial?

The meanings of particular and especial largely overlap; however, particular stresses the distinctness of something as an individual.

a ballet step of particular difficulty

When could special be used to replace especial?

The synonyms special and especial are sometimes interchangeable, but special stresses having a quality, character, identity, or use of its own.

special ingredients

When is specific a more appropriate choice than especial?

The words specific and especial are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, specific implies a quality or character distinguishing a kind or a species.

children with specific nutritional needs

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of especial This oath certainly applies, in an especial manner, to their conduct in their official character. Liz Tracey, JSTOR Daily, 29 July 2025 Not every governor hands out rosary beads, especial rosary beads blessed by the late Pope Francis. Peter Lucas, Boston Herald, 19 June 2025 To one pursuing the even tenor of his usual routine, the chewing of coca gives no especial sensation, in fact the only result seems to be a negative one, an absence of the customary desire for food and sleep. Wade Davis, Rolling Stone, 6 Apr. 2025 Further, studies have shown that people with more abdominal fat have smaller brain volumes especial in areas related to memory and decision making. Dan Perry, Newsweek, 28 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for especial
Recent Examples of Synonyms for especial
Adjective
  • Our work complements beautifully the extraordinary work that has already been done by the producers, sales agents and distributors of Mike Leigh’s films over the years.
    Leo Barraclough, Variety, 22 June 2026
  • The Vietnam War was fought by young Americans thrust into extraordinary circumstances.
    Gary MacNamara, Hartford Courant, 22 June 2026
Adjective
  • The source familiar with the 2024 fire probe said city inspectors now have questions following this new blaze about how the company handled the recovery from the last incident.
    Josh Boswell, CBS News, 26 June 2026
  • This is familiar territory for the Panthers under president of hockey operations and general manager Bill Zito.
    Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 25 June 2026
Adjective
  • Even though the film had no specific political focus.
    Ian Miller OutKick, FOXNews.com, 23 June 2026
  • The specific programs targeted by the EPA regulate emissions from vehicles, lawn and garden equipment, and generators.
    Haley Parsley June 22, Sacbee.com, 23 June 2026
Adjective
  • What Trump is doing is unusual.
    Dana Taylor, USA Today, 26 June 2026
  • Heat domes are not unusual, but the temperatures in this one have been.
    Laura Paddison, CNN Money, 26 June 2026
Adjective
  • Your gentle heart may crave recognition while your spirit needs quiet, so choose a smaller stage and keep the audience intimate.
    Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 26 June 2026
  • The artist was beloved by Americans for his intimate portrayals of the country’s values.
    Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 25 June 2026
Adjective
  • As Taylor Swift appeared on the screen at Nissan Stadium during Alan Jackson's farewell concert in Nashville, the singer-songwriter was met with boos and cheers during her special video message.
    Bryan West, USA Today, 28 June 2026
  • This year, there was a special emphasis on the transgender community, which has become a frequent political target of late.
    John Ramos, CBS News, 28 June 2026
Adjective
  • To start, Lendeborg is an exceptional passer who can run point from the forward position.
    Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 24 June 2026
  • Collectors are competing for works with scarcity, exceptional provenance, and a clear place in art history.
    George Nelson, ARTnews.com, 24 June 2026
Adjective
  • With the wrap in front of you, fold up the edge closest to you.
    Gretchen McKay, Boston Herald, 24 June 2026
  • Because wells in the region are large and close to one another, restarting production will require significant coordination across companies and countries to ensure consistent pressure across multiple wells.
    David Goldman, CNN Money, 24 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Especial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/especial. Accessed 1 Jul. 2026.

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