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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 It’s been a bread basket, but special minerals, rare metals? Jim Cramer, CNBC, 10 Mar. 2025 The 125 building was sold for nearly $4.5 million and the 130 building was sold for $4.1 million, according to city special warranty deeds. Property records show the two buildings last sold in December 2019 for $18.8 million. Jessica Alvarado Gamez, The Denver Post, 10 Mar. 2025 Classic cars are not often driven, Leno said, instead used for special occasions and car shows. Kaitlyn Schallhorn, Orange County Register, 10 Mar. 2025 This Year Most years, congressional budgets are incidental, often passing without a vote; however, this year the House budget bill is different because Republicans are pushing through their sweeping agenda via reconciliation, a special process that sidesteps Senate filibusters. Shahar Ziv, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for special
Recent Examples of Synonyms for special
Adjective
  • His only real competition for the honor is Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets, but even then, Gilgeous-Alexander was a clear frontrunner at that point.
    Nick Crain, Forbes, 10 Mar. 2025
  • The Rays aren’t definitively the only hold-up, though.
    Evan Drellich, The Athletic, 10 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • In addition to lifestyle adjustments, specific brain exercises may boost mental agility and improve focus and memory.
    Dominique Fluker, Essence, 10 Mar. 2025
  • Each tier has its specific advantages, so be sure to explore all the available options.
    Jenifer Calle, Glamour, 10 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Using disabled performer Jett Harris in place of Pistorius, the subtleties of his unique journey are brought to stunning, yet authentic realization.
    Harrison Richlin, IndieWire, 8 Mar. 2025
  • The seemingly darker avant-garde direction the Grammy winner appeared to be heading signaled for many fans a return to the unique Gaga sounds that characterized peerless projects like The Fame Monster and Artpop.
    Chris Malone Mendez, Forbes, 8 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • The regolith samples returned from the Moon during the Apollo missions in the 1960s and 70s are precious, difficult if not impossible to access for research purposes.
    Sven Bilén, The Conversation, 13 Mar. 2025
  • All of the losses that come with slashing NOAA’s staffing and budget will do precious little to achieve the ostensible goal of the White House and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to reduce waste, fraud, and abuse.
    Jeffrey Kluger, TIME, 13 Mar. 2025
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
  • The Guardians signed first baseman Carlos Santana to a one-year, $12-million contract as a free agent immediately after trading Naylor and the 38-year-old is beginning his third stint in his beloved Cleveland.
    John Perrotto, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025
  • Gianni’s beloved baby sister was by her brother’s side from childhood.
    Laird Borrelli-Persson, Vogue, 13 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • As always, Kylian Mbappe is the lone number 9 up front.
    Tom Sanderson, Forbes, 15 Mar. 2025
  • Republican Congressman Thomas Massie of Kentucky defied Trump's guidance and was the lone House Republican to oppose the bill.
    Mark Davis, Newsweek, 14 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Our favorite machines here can turn your barista into a stranger.
    Brad Bourque, WIRED, 16 Mar. 2025
  • Despite its popularity, Lululemon has been able to keep some secrets under wraps, including a little corner of the brand’s site that features some of our favorite pieces for special prices.
    Genevieve Cepeda, Travel + Leisure, 16 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Special.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/special. Accessed 22 Mar. 2025.

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