- [usually before noun] not ordinary or usual; different from what is normal synonym exceptional
- The school will only allow this in special circumstances.
- An application has been filed for special leave to appeal in the High Court.
- Some of the officials have special privileges.
- There is something special about this place.
- This type of wood needs special treatment.
Extra Examples- In special circumstances candidates without these qualifications may be considered.
- Journalists were given no special privileges.
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- more important than others; deserving or getting more attention than usual
- What are your special interests?
- Our special guest on next week’s show will be…
- a special occasion
- a special 20th anniversary edition of the movie
- It's a film that holds a special place in my heart.
- What makes him special as a director is his obvious intelligence.
- She makes me feel special.
- She's a very special friend.
- Don't lose it—it's special.
Extra Examples- He wanted someone special in his life.
- The oil industry was treated as a special case.
- organized or intended for a particular purpose
- British special forces were employed on stealth operations.
- a special event/report/team
- There are almost no special features on this DVD.
- These teachers need special training.
- Dr Pearce is the special adviser on environmental issues.
- a United Nations special envoy
- The merger was approved at a special meeting of shareholders.
- used by or intended for one particular person or group of people
- She has a special way of smiling.
- He enlivens his lectures with his own special brand of humour.
- He sent a special message to the men.
Extra Examples- He was usually to be found in the cafe at his own special table by the window.
- It's the author's special way of paying homage to an earlier poet.
- The President ended with a special message for the people of Texas.
- The directors have their own special pension fund.
- The choreographer created a special style of dance for each character.
- The speaker paid special tribute to the founder of the organization.
- The director received a special ovation from the actors.
- [only before noun] better or more than usual
- As an only child she got special attention.
- Special thanks are due to the many volunteers who helped organize fundraising events.
- People who grow things have a special relationship with the land.
- Please take special care of it.
- Police advised residents to take special precautions because of the increase in burglaries.
compare especial
Word OriginMiddle English: shortening of Old French especial ‘especial’ or Latin specialis, from species ‘appearance’, from specere ‘to look’.
Check pronunciation:
special