Special
ˈspɛʃəl
Definitions
3 meaningsBeing better or more important than others; not usual or ordinary.
ˈspɛʃəl
Distinguished from others of the same kind.
This special occasion calls for champagne.
💡 Simply: Imagine you have a favorite toy that's extra fun, like a superhero action figure. That toy is special! Special things are more fun and enjoyable than the others.
👶 For kids: Something special is like a treat or a really good toy. It's extra good!
More Examples
She has a special talent for painting.
The company held a special meeting to discuss the crisis.
How It's Used
"This cake is special; it was made for your birthday."
"We're offering a special discount this week."
Made or adapted for a particular purpose or occasion.
ˈspɛʃəl
Designed or used for a particular purpose.
They use a special type of glue for this project.
💡 Simply: A special pencil can have a special eraser. A special pencil might have a special eraser that only removes permanent ink. It's meant to do something specific that other things can't.
👶 For kids: Something special means it's made for a special reason, like a special pair of shoes for running!
More Examples
This medication requires special instructions.
He was appointed as a special envoy to the peace talks.
How It's Used
"The lab equipment required special calibration."
"She attends a special school for children with learning disabilities."
Something that is treated, done, or designed to be a little different or better than usual.
ˈspɛʃəl
A thing that is special; a program.
The store is having a special on all summer clothes.
💡 Simply: If your favorite ice cream shop has a special, that is one of the many items they offer. Sometimes they are discounted or have a unique twist.
👶 For kids: A special is like a fun show on TV or a treat that is only available for a little while.
More Examples
The news channel will be airing a special on climate change tonight.
The chef prepared a special dish for the occasion.
How It's Used
"The television network will broadcast a special on the war."
"Today's special is a discounted pizza."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
special effects
Artificial visual or mechanical effects used in the film and entertainment industry.
"The movie's special effects were stunning."
special delivery
A postal service that provides rapid and secure handling and delivery.
"I sent the documents by special delivery."
special needs
Particular educational, medical, or social requirements resulting from a disability or other condition.
"The school provides support for children with special needs."
special someone
A person who is particularly important or beloved to someone, usually in a romantic context.
"I'm going out tonight with my special someone."
From Old French *especial* or *special*, from Latin *specialis* meaning 'of a particular kind' or 'belonging to a species'.
The word 'special' has been used in English since the 14th century, initially meaning 'particular' or 'individual'. Its usage has evolved to encompass ideas of importance and distinctiveness.
Memory tip
Think of a *special* occasion or person, something set apart and celebrated.
Word Origin
"of a particular kind, individual, or separate"