Definition of especialnext
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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective especial differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of especial are individual, particular, special, and specific. While all these words mean "of or relating to one thing or class," especial may add implications of preeminence or preference.

a matter of especial importance

Where would individual be a reasonable alternative to especial?

Although the words individual and especial have much in common, individual implies unequivocal reference to one of a class or group.

valued each individual opinion

In what contexts can particular take the place of especial?

The meanings of particular and especial largely overlap; however, particular stresses the distinctness of something as an individual.

a ballet step of particular difficulty

When could special be used to replace especial?

The synonyms special and especial are sometimes interchangeable, but special stresses having a quality, character, identity, or use of its own.

special ingredients

When is specific a more appropriate choice than especial?

The words specific and especial are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, specific implies a quality or character distinguishing a kind or a species.

children with specific nutritional needs

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of especial Further, studies have shown that people with more abdominal fat have smaller brain volumes especial in areas related to memory and decision making. Dan Perry, Newsweek, 28 Feb. 2025 The plan is to install some 17 miles of wildlife fencing to connect habitats and lower vehicle crashes, especial with deer and elk (which can weigh over 1,000 pounds and cause a lot of damage to passenger vehicles). Noël Fletcher, Forbes, 29 Oct. 2024 Both took especial glee in going after Ramaswamy, a Trump for the millennial set so automatic in his Trumpier-than-thou responses to any question that Christie lampooned him as a sort of ChatGPT version of a Republican candidate. Susan B. Glasser, The New Yorker, 24 Aug. 2023 The city has an especial affinity for literature. Leah Asmelash, CNN, 2 Mar. 2022 See All Example Sentences for especial
Recent Examples of Synonyms for especial
Adjective
  • Memory chipmakers have also seen extraordinary surges due to expectations for the AI buildout to boost demand for data storage.
    John Towfighi, CNN Money, 10 Feb. 2026
  • Private schools, particularly Catholic schools, have demonstrated extraordinary success — even in communities struggling with poverty.
    Paul Vallas, Chicago Tribune, 9 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Super Bowl Sunday will bring watch parties with overflowing snack tables and a familiar lineup of wings, chips and dip.
    Dallas Morning News, Dallas Morning News, 5 Feb. 2026
  • This moment marks the transition from familiar to unpredictable.
    Micki Meyer, The Orlando Sentinel, 5 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • By adjusting for variables such as smoking, physical activity and underlying health conditions, the researchers were able to isolate the specific relationship between caffeine intake and long-term brain health, SWNS noted.
    Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 10 Feb. 2026
  • James Reilly, senior markets economist at Capital Economics, said in a note that while the broader stock market continues to climb higher, exposure to AI will be a specific boost or drag for certain companies.
    John Towfighi, CNN Money, 10 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • That unusual role for a spy chief raised additional questions from Democrats on the House and Senate intelligence committees.
    DAVID KLEPPER THE ASSOCIATED PRESS, Arkansas Online, 5 Feb. 2026
  • What was unusual, in Lublin’s view, was for Bessent to reveal his thoughts on monetary policy — normally the purview of the Federal Reserve — and his insistence that Trump has the right to interfere with the decision-making of the central bank.
    Fatima Hussein, Fortune, 5 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Austin is offering everything from la Madeleine’s chocolate-strawberry bakery boards to Azul’s candlelit rooftop cabanas, including intimate prix-fixe dinners and playful donut boat adventures.
    Ana Gutierrez, Austin American Statesman, 5 Feb. 2026
  • Creating a more romantic atmosphere at home can transform your space into a cozy, intimate retreat.
    Kate Donovan, Martha Stewart, 5 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The spa also includes hairdressing and nail care services, with special treatments for brides.
    José Cantillo Ferrer, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Feb. 2026
  • These special beings unite to try and discover their true evolutionary purpose while being watched and hunted by a dark group called the Whispers.
    Jeff Spry, Space.com, 14 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Even when dining on the patio, the cuisine is exceptional, which comes as no surprise since Seabourn is a member of the famous culinary Chaîne des Rôtisseurs association.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Feb. 2026
  • The service is exceptional, and the food is delicious, especially the fluffy, build-your-own omelet.
    USA TODAY NETWORK, USA Today, 11 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Over the years, Grey and Pollan have remained close, often supporting one another through personal and professional milestones.
    Danielle Minnetian, FOXNews.com, 10 Feb. 2026
  • The bus depot is two stories beneath the train platform and several blocks from the closest stairway.
    DP Opinion, Denver Post, 10 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Especial.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/especial. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026.

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