In some situations, the words special and specific are roughly equivalent.
The synonyms particular and specific are sometimes interchangeable, but particular stresses the distinctness of something as an individual.Ī ballet step of particular difficulty When is it sensible to use special instead of specific? having a special application, bearing, or reference specifying, explicit, or definite: to state ones specific purpose. Valued each individual opinion When could particular be used to replace specific? 51 synonym for specific: particular, special, characteristic, distinguishing, signature. While the synonyms individual and specific are close in meaning, individual implies unequivocal reference to one of a class or group. The words especial and specific can be used in similar contexts, but especial may add implications of preeminence or preference.Ī matter of especial importance When can individual be used instead of specific? While all these words mean "of or relating to one thing or class," specific implies a quality or character distinguishing a kind or a species.Ĭhildren with specific nutritional needs Where would especial be a reasonable alternative to specific? Some common synonyms of specific are especial, individual, particular, and special. 51 synonym for specific: particular, special, characteristic, distinguishing, signature, peculiar. Our thesaurus contains synonyms of specific in 34 different contexts. Frequently Asked Questions About specific How does the adjective specific differ from other similar words? Trying to find another word for specific in English No problem.