special
- 01 A1 Beginner
adj.different from what is normal, usually in a way that is better or more important.
adj.distinguished by a unique, particular, or unusual quality that sets it apart from the ordinary.
Simple“We are going to a very special restaurant for my mother's birthday.”
In context“The gallery is hosting a special exhibition featuring rare sketches that have never been displayed to the public before.”
Synonyms - 02 A2 Elementary
adj.made or used for one particular person, thing, or event.
adj.designed or appointed for a specific purpose, occasion, or function rather than for general use.
Simple“You need a special tool to open the back of this watch.”
In context“The government appointed a special committee to investigate the environmental impact of the new highway project.”
SynonymsAntonyms - 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.relating to highly trained soldiers who do difficult or secret work.
adj.relating to unconventional warfare or elite military units trained for specific, high-risk missions.
Simple“The special forces were sent in to rescue the hostages.”
In context“The operation required the precision of special operations units capable of navigating the dense jungle without detection.”
Synonyms - 04 A2 Elementary
n.a dish that is not on the regular menu or is sold at a lower price.
n.a meal offered by a restaurant for a limited time, often featuring seasonal ingredients or a discounted price.
Simple“The waiter told us that the seafood pasta was the daily special.”
In context“While the standard menu is excellent, the chef's evening special usually highlights the freshest catch from the local market.”
Synonymsfeaturedish of the day - 05 B1 Intermediate
n.a single television show that is not part of a regular series.
n.an exceptional or standalone episode of a television series or a one-off broadcast event.
Simple“The comedy show is filming a Christmas special this week.”
In context“The network aired a two-hour news special documenting the historical significance of the recent election results.”
Synonymsone offfeature - 06 C2 Proficiency
n.a light used to shine on one specific person or thing on a stage.
n.a luminaire used to highlight a specific performer or prop, distinct from the general wash of the stage.
Simple“The technician adjusted the special to make sure the lead actor was visible.”
In context“The lighting designer requested an additional special to emphasize the protagonist's isolation during the final soliloquy.”
Synonyms
Usage special needs · special educational · special projects
From Middle English *special, especial, especiall, from Old French especial (whence also French spécial), from Latin speciālis (from speciēs). In this sense displaced native Old English synderlīċ. Doublet of especial.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.