# special relationship

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/special-relationship
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

A political and diplomatic relationship between two countries that is particularly close and is considered to be based on deep historical and ideological ties rather than merely common interests; especially:

## Examples

- The two countries share a special relationship.
- The leaders met to discuss how to strengthen the special relationship between their two nations during these difficult times.
- Historians often argue that the special relationship between these two powers has fundamentally shaped the global political landscape for over a century.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.