adjective / noun
special
SPESH-uhl/ˈspeʃl/
Set apart from the ordinary for a particular reason.
The handmade cup is special because its pattern differs from the plain cups.
Etymology
Latin species could identify a particular kind distinguished by shared characteristics. Its adjective meant “individual” or “particular,” leading to the sense of something marked off from the general or ordinary.
In context
… special pleading is when you say that we're going to use reason in the standards of reason in every case. But this one is special cuz it's God.
More examples
- The school provides special equipment for students with disabilities.
- The store's weekend specials include half-price towels.
- Tonight's special is grilled trout with lemon.
- We watch a holiday special on television every December.
Forms
special · specials · more special · most special
specially adverb — For a particular purpose or occasion.
Similar words
- unusual
- Emphasizes being uncommon, without implying a particular purpose or value.
- exceptional
- Suggests a much greater departure from normal, often in quality.
- particular
- Identifies one specific person or thing rather than others.