Definition of especialnext
1
2
3

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 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 The plan is to install some 17 miles of wildlife fencing to connect habitats and lower vehicle crashes, especial with deer and elk (which can weigh over 1,000 pounds and cause a lot of damage to passenger vehicles). Noël Fletcher, Forbes, 29 Oct. 2024 Both took especial glee in going after Ramaswamy, a Trump for the millennial set so automatic in his Trumpier-than-thou responses to any question that Christie lampooned him as a sort of ChatGPT version of a Republican candidate. Susan B. Glasser, The New Yorker, 24 Aug. 2023 The city has an especial affinity for literature. Leah Asmelash, CNN, 2 Mar. 2022 See All Example Sentences for especial
Recent Examples of Synonyms for especial
Adjective
  • Packed with extraordinary gorilla behavior never filmed before, this is a story of hope and joy.
    Matt Grobar, Deadline, 7 Jan. 2026
  • Johnson’s ability to rapidly guide the Bears here registers as extraordinary.
    Dan Wiederer, New York Times, 7 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • The knit top offered the familiar ease of an oversized tee with the warmth and polish of a sweater, a mix that feels both cozy and refined.
    Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 10 Jan. 2026
  • Experts say some familiar nutrition advice remains, but the changes may raise questions and confusion.
    Sarah Garone, Health, 9 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • But more than specific features and fixtures, the idea of wellness is becoming a big bathroom selling point.
    Lew Sichelman, Miami Herald, 9 Jan. 2026
  • The final part of the dormancy evolution puzzle is what ecologists refer to as the ecological niche a species occupies — the specific set of conditions that species evolved to exploit or the conditions under which that species is likely to be more successful when compared to other species.
    Paul Cappiello, Louisville Courier Journal, 9 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • This translation by Nancy Naomi Carlson preserves the rich musicality of the original French, as well as its frequent use of wordplay and often unusual word choice.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 10 Nov. 2025
  • Ostrich Leather Recognizable by its distinctive quill pattern and supple texture, ostrich leather combines durability with an unusual kind of beauty.
    Cortne Bonilla, Vogue, 9 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • The scale of this social media-free existence felt more human, more intimate.
    Lindsay Lowe, Parents, 8 Nov. 2025
  • With just 13 bedrooms overlooking Bantry Bay, the hotel stands as an intimate ode to art and viticulture.
    Emily Baldwin, Travel + Leisure, 8 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Nowadays, Khloé Kardashian will only accept one very special boy in her bed.
    Ingrid Vasquez, PEOPLE, 8 Jan. 2026
  • The defensive coordinator, who has a special relationship with his longtime pupil, is happy to see Scott on the upswing.
    Mike Kaye January 8, Charlotte Observer, 8 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Together, these innovations position the D19 not only as a high-performance SUV but also as a vehicle engineered for exceptional control and confidence in a variety of driving conditions.
    Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 10 Jan. 2026
  • The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes Waubonsee graduates who demonstrate exceptional achievement and meaningful, ongoing contributions to their professions, communities and alma mater, the release said.
    Aurora Beacon-News, Chicago Tribune, 9 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Traffic concerns remained a prominent theme of the more than 100 emails the city received in early December, but many people expressed excitement at the prospect of a closer Costco.
    Rose Evans January 8, Idaho Statesman, 8 Jan. 2026
  • The Clippers raced to a 14-5 lead, but the Knicks answered with eight straight points and the game was close for the first three quarters.
    CBS News, CBS News, 8 Jan. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Especial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/especial. Accessed 11 Jan. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on especial

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!