Definition of specialnext
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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective special differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of special are especial, individual, particular, and specific. While all these words mean "of or relating to one thing or class," special stresses having a quality, character, identity, or use of its own.

special ingredients

When would especial be a good substitute for special?

The meanings of especial and special largely overlap; however, especial may add implications of preeminence or preference.

a matter of especial importance

When is it sensible to use individual instead of special?

While the synonyms individual and special are close in meaning, individual implies unequivocal reference to one of a class or group.

valued each individual opinion

When is particular a more appropriate choice than special?

In some situations, the words particular and special are roughly equivalent. However, particular stresses the distinctness of something as an individual.

a ballet step of particular difficulty

When can specific be used instead of special?

Although the words specific and special have much in common, 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 special No Chaser is on tour with a special summer beach theme. Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 20 June 2026 The special thing about Altamira is its limestone, a soil type that is very unusual in Mendoza. Forbes.com, 20 June 2026 Maryland’s House speaker has told members to set aside time in July for a potential special session on redistricting. David A. Lieb, Chicago Tribune, 20 June 2026 Seeing other diners on their phone during a meal takes away from what makes a dining experience special. The Editors, Robb Report, 20 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for special
Recent Examples of Synonyms for special
Adjective
  • The overlap between Juneteenth celebrations and World Cup festivities has created a unique opportunity for Kansas City’s Black cultural institutions.
    J.M. Banks June 20, Kansas City Star, 20 June 2026
  • The red varieties with burgundy leaves are an excellent contrast to dahlia foliage, and their unique blooms last for weeks in the garden.
    Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 June 2026
Adjective
  • How can there be so much life bursting around you when your loved one has died?
    Liz Shulman, Chicago Tribune, 19 June 2026
  • It’s chosen to mark a milestone, celebrate an achievement, or share a meaningful experience with friends and loved ones.
    Chris Perugini, Forbes.com, 18 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
  • Drinkwater didn't make one appearance in a Chelsea shirt last season, whilst Bakayoko spent the season in Italy on loan at AC Milan.
    SI.com, SI.com, 3 Aug. 2019
  • Decisions made by engineers today, in other words, will determine not how one car drives but how all cars drive.
    Johannes Himmelreich, BostonGlobe.com, 30 Mar. 2018
Adjective
  • For this, we’re granted precious flashback rations, which up until this point, have been a rare commodity this season.
    Rebecca Alter, Vulture, 22 June 2026
  • The soft, flexible construction folds easily into a tote or the corner of a carry-on without eating up precious space.
    Robin Raven, Travel + Leisure, 22 June 2026
Adjective
  • That could lead to Arraez making it in as a reserve, or the Giants’ lone selection or selections being a pitcher or pitchers.
    Sean Campbell, Sacbee.com, 23 June 2026
  • The sun was blinding, my lone witness.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 22 June 2026
Adjective
  • The vampire at the center of Rice’s beloved novels has flirted with music before.
    Precious Fondren, Los Angeles Times, 20 June 2026
  • Keeping hope alive With their voices loud and signs up high, BCSB leaders, parents, and supporters rallied Thursday in an effort to keep their beloved school open.
    Dennis Valera, CBS News, 19 June 2026
Adjective
  • Liam Payne’s young son, Bear, has been named the sole beneficiary of the One Direction alum’s estate, nearly two years after the pop star fatally plunged from a hotel balcony in South America.
    Jami Ganz, New York Daily News, 22 June 2026
  • Also opting for a more casual look, Zendaya’s costar and real-life partner Holland wore blue jeans, a light blue collared shirt, a tan jacket and lug sole black boots.
    Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 22 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Special.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/special. Accessed 26 Jun. 2026.

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