Synonyms of especial

especial

adjective

i-ˈspe-shəl 

1

as in extraordinary

being out of the ordinary

a candidate who handled the stunning defeat with especial grace

Synonyms & Similar Words

• extraordinary
• unusual
• exceptional
• unique
• rare
• outstanding
• remarkable
• uncommon
• singular
• abnormal
• odd
• exceeding
• unwonted
• peculiar
• incredible
• phenomenal
• anomalous
• atypical
• noticeable
• striking
• aberrant
• preternatural
• notable
• conspicuous
• freak
• prominent
• uncustomary
• salient
• extraordinaire
• aberrated
• strange
• eccentric
• bizarre
• deviant
• inconceivable
• quaint
• weird
• unimaginable
• oddball
• incomprehensible
• outlandish
• freakish
• monstrous
• unthinkable

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• common
• ordinary
• usual
• normal
• customary
• typical
• frequent
• unextraordinary
• unexceptional
• familiar
• everyday

2

as in familiar

closely acquainted

he told his especial friends about the job offer but kept everyone else in the dark

Synonyms & Similar Words

• familiar
• intimate
• close
• friendly
• inseparable
• bosom
• inward
• social
• tight
• near
• dear
• chummy
• comfortable
• affectionate
• loving
• boon
• thick
• genial
• convivial
• buddy-buddy
• cordial
• gracious
• clannish
• companionable
• easy
• affable
• neighborly
• gregarious
• hearty
• sociable
• confidential
• cozy
• adoring
• devoted
• fond
• close-knit
• amicable
• warm
• secretive
• tight-knit
• snug
• tender
• tenderhearted

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• distant
• cold
• distant
• remote
• cool
• withdrawn
• aloof
• antisocial
• unfriendly
• frosty
• detached
• reserved
• unsociable
• standoffish

3

as in special

of a particular or exact sort

with a very ordinary lawn, we don't have any especial need for a gardener

Synonyms & Similar Words

• special
• specific
• sole
• precise
• distinct
• express
• peculiar
• concrete
• specialized
• only
• distinctive
• set
• single
• individual
• unique
• limited
• solitary
• separate
• exclusive
• lone
• restricted
• given
• specified
• differentiated

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• general
• nonspecific
• universal
• generic
• generalized
• nonexclusive

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

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

Phrases Containing especial

• in especial