special

modif.

1. Intended for a particular purpose

   specific, particular, appropriate, especial, peculiar, proper, individual, first, unique, personal, restricted, exclusive, defined, limited, reserved, specialized, determinate, distinct, select, choice, definite, marked, designated, earmarked.

   Antonyms general*, unrestricted*, indefinite. *

2. Unusual

   distinctive, exceptional, extraordinary; see unusual 1.

special and especial both imply that the thing so described has qualities, aspects, or uses that differentiate it from others of its class, and the choice of word generally depends on euphony, but special is generally used to emphasize the fact of differentiation itself he requires a special diet or exceptional status or quality there is something special in her paintings; especial is usually preferred where preeminence is implied a matter of especial interest to you; specific and particular are both applied to something that is singled out for attention, but specific suggests the explicit statement of an example, illustration, etc. he cited specific cases, and particular emphasizes the distinctness or individuality of the thing so described in this particular case

special*

n.