Translation guide
The English word "special" covers a wide range of meanings, from "not ordinary" to "specific" or "particular." This guide breaks down the most useful Japanese expressions for each nuance.
何か特別な理由があるんですか？
Do you have a special reason?
特別 (tokubetsu) works for "special" in the sense of "particular."
Describing something that stands out from the norm, often with a positive connotation.
The most common and versatile word for "special." It can mean "exceptional," "particular," or "extra." Used in both casual and formal contexts.
今日は特別な日です。
Today is a special day.
特別な人
a special person
Loanword from English, often used in marketing, menus, or casual speech. Sounds trendy or commercial.
Means "exceptionally good" or "special" in a refined sense. Often used for taste or experiences.
Referring to one specific thing, person, or group, not general.
Used to specify a particular item or group. Often used in formal or technical contexts.
特定の条件を満たす必要があります。
You need to meet specific conditions.
Emphasizing that something is unlike anything else.
Modifying an adjective or verb to mean "to a special degree."
The standard adverb meaning "especially" or "particularly."
Receiving better treatment than others.
Something one is particularly good at or known for.
特別 (tokubetsu) is the general word for "special" in the sense of "not ordinary" or "particular." 特殊 (tokushu) implies "unusual" or "atypical," often with a neutral or slightly technical nuance. For example, 特殊な道具 (special/unusual tools) vs. 特別な日 (a special day).
これは特別なケースです。
This is a special case. (It's exceptional.)
これは特殊なケースです。
This is an unusual case. (It's atypical.)
While スペシャル (supesharu) is understood, it can sound like marketing jargon or overly casual. In most everyday situations, 特別 (tokubetsu) is more natural.
何がそんなに特別なの？
What's so special about it?
今日のスペシャルメニューは何ですか？
What is today's special menu?
格別なおもてなし
exceptional hospitality
Can also mean "particular" or "specific," especially in phrases like 特別な理由 (a particular reason).
特別な理由がない限り、参加してください。
Please participate unless you have a specific reason not to.
Means "exclusive use" or "dedicated." Used for tools, lanes, parking, etc.
これは社員専用の駐車場です。
This is a parking lot for employees only.
Means "unique" or "distinctive." Often used for styles, flavors, or personalities.
彼女は独特のファッションセンスを持っている。
She has a unique fashion sense.
Loanword meaning "unique" or "original." Common in casual conversation.
そのアイデアはとてもユニークだね。
That idea is very unique.
Means "special" in the sense of "unusual" or "atypical." Often used for circumstances, abilities, or equipment.
特殊な訓練が必要です。
Special training is required.
Adverbial form of 特別, meaning "specially" or "exceptionally." Often implies doing something out of the ordinary.
特別に許可します。
I'll give you special permission.
Literally "special treatment." Can be positive or negative depending on context.
彼だけ特別扱いするのは不公平だ。
It's unfair to give him special treatment.
Means "preferential treatment" or "favorable treatment." More formal.
優遇措置を受ける
to receive preferential treatment
Means "one's strong point" or "specialty." Used for skills or subjects.
数学が得意です。
I'm good at math. (Math is my specialty.)
Means "specialty" or "field of expertise." More formal, often used for academic or professional areas.
彼の専門は物理学です。
His specialty is physics.