How to Pronounce Special

To pronounce "special", say SPEC-ial — 2 syllables, IPA /ˈspɛ.ʃəl/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

special

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Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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Syllables

Letters

/ˈspɛ.ʃəl/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “special”

"special" has 2 syllables: spec-ial. It rhymes with especial and aecial, if that helps it stick.

What does special mean?

noun

A reduction in consumer cost (usually for a limited time) for items or services rendered.
“We're running a special on turkey for Thanksgiving.”
One of a rotation of meals systematically offered for a lower price at a restaurant.
“Today's special is our tuna melt on rye.”

verb

(nursing) To supervise a patient one-on-one.

adjective

Distinguished by a unique or unusual quality.
“a special episode of a television series”
Of particular personal interest or value; dear; beloved.
“Everyone is special to someone.”

Antonyms

common non-special ordinary usual

Hear “special” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Words that rhyme with special

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

especial aecial meshell peschel preschel

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "special"?▾

"Special" has 2 syllables: spec · ial.

What is the IPA transcription of "special"?▾

The IPA transcription of "special" is /ˈspɛ.ʃəl/.

What does "special" mean?▾

Special: A reduction in consumer cost (usually for a limited time) for items or services rendered.

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