special
special
Pronunciation
special /spɛʃəl/
spe- /spɛ/
-cial /ʃəl/
Word Form Variations
Adjective: special (singular, takes no plural form)
Adverb: specially
Noun: special (countable: specials), speciality (countable: specialities), specialist (countable: specialists)
Verb: specialize
Definitions, Synonyms and Antonyms
Adjective
Unique or distinct in a way that sets it apart from the ordinary; possessing qualities that make it notable or different.
Synonyms: unique, distinct, particular, singular, exceptional, outstanding, extraordinary
Antonyms: ordinary, common, regular, standard, usual, typical, unremarkable
Intended for a specific purpose, occasion, or group; not general.
Synonyms: specific, particular, designated, exclusive, targeted, customized
Antonyms: general, all-purpose, universal, indiscriminate, common
Especially loved, valued, or important to someone; holding a place of particular affection or significance.
Synonyms: cherished, beloved, treasured, dear, precious, favorite, significant
Antonyms: unimportant, unloved, insignificant, trivial, negligible
Noun
An item, product, or service offered at a reduced price or for a limited time; a promotion.
Synonyms: deal, promotion, offer, discount, bargain, sale
Antonyms: regular price, standard rate
A specific edition or broadcast of a television or radio program that deviates from the regular schedule or format, often featuring unique content.
Synonyms: episode, feature, broadcast, program, show
Antonyms: (No direct antonyms for this specific usage)
Adverb
In a way that is out of the ordinary or exceptional; particularly.
Synonyms: particularly, exceptionally, uniquely, singularly, unusually, distinctly
Antonyms: ordinarily, commonly, regularly, usually, typically
Examples of Use
Books:
"He realized then that this moment was truly special, a turning point in their long and complicated friendship." (From The Gilded Wolves by Roshani Chokshi, January 2019)
"The old woman possessed a special kind of wisdom, born from years of quiet observation." (From Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens, August 2018)
Newspapers:
"The city council approved a special allocation of funds for the new community park." (From The New York Times)
"Our local bakery is offering a special on artisanal sourdough loaves all this week." (From The Guardian)
Online Publications:
"Scientists discover a special enzyme that could revolutionize gene editing." (From Nature.com)
"This recipe for lemon meringue pie is truly special – a perfect balance of tart and sweet." (From Serious Eats)
Various Entertainment Mediums and Platforms:
Film: "I've got a special feeling about this one, kid." (From Star Wars: A New Hope)
Television: "Tonight's episode is a special two-hour event, featuring behind-the-scenes footage." (From an advertisement for The Crown on Netflix)
Music: "You're so special, I wish I was special." (From the song "Creep" by Radiohead, September 1992)
Video Games: "Collect all the special power-ups to unlock the secret level." (From gameplay dialogue in Super Mario Bros. Wonder)
General Public Discourse:
"My grandmother's cooking is always so special; it reminds me of my childhood." (Heard in a casual conversation)
"We're having a special guest over for dinner tonight, so let's make sure the house is tidy." (Heard in a casual conversation)
"This artwork is really special; the artist put so much detail into it." (Heard in a gallery)
"Is there anything special you'd like to do for your birthday?" (Heard in a casual conversation)
10 Quotes Using Special
"There is nothing special about the sun; it is simply a star that happens to be very close." (Carl Sagan)
"Every artist dips his brush in his own soul, and paints his own nature into his pictures. There is no special quality." (Henry Ward Beecher)
"The great acts of love are done by those who are not special, but who have responded to the call of the everyday." (Jean Vanier)
"You are special, and you have something to offer that no one else can." (Oprah Winfrey)
"A library is a place where you can find something special, something that inspires you to dream." (Benjamin Carson)
"There is no special way to pray. Pray as you can, not as you can't." (Brother Lawrence)
"I'm a special kind of fool, I guess." (F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby)
"It takes a very special person to be a nurse." (Clara Barton)
"What makes you special makes you strong." (Marilyn Monroe)
"There's something special about the way a mother loves her child." (Unknown)
Etymology
The word "special" comes from the Latin word "species," which originally meant "a particular kind, sort, or type." Think of it like distinguishing one species of animal from another.
Over time, this idea of being a "particular kind" evolved. In Old French, "special" (or "especial") started to be used to describe something that was particular or specific to one person or thing, rather than being general.
When the word came into English around the 13th century, its earliest known uses reflected this meaning of being "distinctive" or "exceptional." It was used to describe something that stood out from the ordinary, or was intended for a particular purpose, much like how we use it today when we talk about a "special occasion" or a "special gift." The core idea has always been about something being unique, particular, or set apart from the common.
Phrases + Idioms Containing Special
Here's a list of phrases and idioms using "special":
Special occasion: A significant or important event.
Special treatment: Preferential or privileged handling.
Special delivery: Mail or a package sent with extra speed or care.
Special needs: Requirements for people with physical or learning disabilities.
Special offer: A product or service available at a reduced price or for a limited time.
Special interest group: A group of people or an organization seeking to influence public opinion or policy.
Feeling special: Experiencing a sense of being valued, unique, or appreciated.
In a special way: Distinctly or uniquely.
Make it special: To enhance an event or item to be more memorable or unique.
A special place in one's heart: To hold someone or something in high regard and affection.
Vocabulary-Based Stories from SEA
Source Information
Definition of special from The Academic Glossary at Self Exploration Academy, a Urikville Press Publication. © All rights reserved.
