Some common synonyms of special are especial, individual, particular, and specific. While all these words mean "of or relating to one thing or class," special stresses having a quality, character, identity, or use of its own.

// special ingredients

The meanings of especial and special largely overlap; however, especial may add implications of preeminence or preference.

// a matter of especial importance

In some situations, the words particular and special are roughly equivalent. However, particular stresses the distinctness of something as an individual.

// a ballet step of particular difficulty