especial
/ɪˈspɛʃ(ə)l
/ /ɛˈspɛʃ(ə)l/adjective [attributive]
1Better or greater than usual; special: these traditions are of especial interest to feminists...
- When building a house or farm especial care should be taken to place it at the foot of a wooded hill where it is exposed to health-giving winds.
- Where life is at stake the evidence must be scrutinised with especial care.
- The sections on stage antiquities and on the Athenian constitution are of especial interest to scholars.
Synonyms
exceptional, particular, special, extra special, extraordinary, outstanding, superior, unusual, marked, singular, signal;
out of the ordinary, uncommon, rare, unwonted, notable, noteworthy, surprising, remarkable, striking, unique
2For or belonging chiefly to one person or thing: her outburst was for my especial benefit...
- Students and their problems were her especial concern.
- As a Provost and Judge, it is your especial duty to render justice to all, to hear patiently, remember accurately, and weigh carefully the facts and the arguments offered.
- Each member of the family had his especial duty to perform, his particular bags to oversee.
Synonyms
distinctive, individual, special, particular, distinct, peculiar, personal, own, unique, singular, exclusive, specific, private
Origin
Late Middle English: via Old French from Latin specialis 'special', from species (see species).