especial
UK[ɪˈspeʃ(ə)l]US[ɪˈspeʃ(ə)l]
adj
Greater or better than usual; particular or special.
adj
Used to single out one person, thing, or situation over all others.
Morpheme Breakdown
e
special
e
out
special
particular
Etymology
The word 'especial' entered Middle English from the Old French 'especial', which itself was derived from the Latin 'specialis', meaning 'individual' or 'particular'. The Latin prefix 'ex-' (meaning 'out') was assimilated to 'e-' before 's', intensifying the root to convey the sense of 'standing out from the ordinary'. Thus, the literal construction 'out-particular' evolved into the modern abstract meaning of something distinguished, exceptional, or singled out for particular notice. It is a more formal synonym for 'special', with which it shares the same ultimate Latin root.
Analysis
Structure: e (out) + special (particular)
- e: A prefix of Latin origin, a variant of 'ex-', meaning 'out of' or 'thoroughly'.
- special: An adjective of Latin origin, from 'specialis' (individual, particular), itself from 'species' (appearance, kind).
Examples
He took especial care to lock the door.
This rule is of especial importance to new members.
She has an especial talent for understanding complex problems.