How to Say “Special” in Greek

ειδικός
eidikósmasculine
The English word 'special' can be translated into Greek in several ways depending on the context. The default form is ειδικός (eidikós). Wiktionary also lists ιδιαίτερος (idiaíteros).
Meaning: of particular interest or value, certain, dear, beloved, favored (adj)

Ways to say it

“special” in Greek
Greek Romanization (Wiktionary) IPA Note
ειδικός eidikós masculine
ιδιαίτερος idiaíteros /iˈði̯e.te.ɾos/
/iˈðʝe.te.ɾos/
masculine

In Greek, the word you choose for 'special' depends on whether you mean 'specialized' or 'unique'. You can use ειδικός to describe something that is specific, specialized or to refer to a professional expert (as a noun). For something that is unique, exceptional or of particular interest, use ιδιαίτερος. Additionally, if you are referring to an unusual or exceptional episode of a TV or radio series, the word έκτακτος is used, while a special limited-time reduction in cost or a deal is called a προσφορά.

Which one should you use?

Use ειδικός when referring to something specialized, specific or a professional expert. Use ιδιαίτερος when referring to something that is unique, exceptional or of particular interest.

Related words

How does it change in a sentence?

The word ειδικός changes based on gender: the feminine form is ειδική and the neuter form is ειδικό. Similarly, the word ιδιαίτερος has the feminine form ιδιαίτερη and the neuter form ιδιαίτερο.

How do you pronounce it?

eidikós

Did you know?

  • The word ιδιαίτερος shares its root with the English word 'idiosyncrasy', which describes a person's peculiar or individual traits.
  • If you use ειδικός to describe a person, you are calling them a 'professional' or 'specialist' rather than saying they are a 'special person' in an emotional sense.

Examples in context

  • Έχουμε έναν ειδικό καλεσμένο για τη σημερινή εκδήλωση.
    We have a special guest for today's event.
  • Είχαμε μια μοναδική εμπειρία στο ταξίδι μας.
    We had a unique experience on our trip.
  • Καλή επιτυχία!
    Good luck!

Example conversation

George and Eleni are discussing a guest at a party.

  1. Γιώργος Giorgos

    Ποιος είναι αυτός ο κύριος;
    Poios einai aftos o kyrios?
    Who is this gentleman?
  2. Ελένη Eleni

    Είναι ένας ειδικός καλεσμένος για σήμερα.
    Einai enas eidikos kalesmenos gia simera.
    He is a special guest for today.
  3. Γιώργος Giorgos

    Χαίρομαι που τον γνωρίζω.
    Cheromai pou ton gnorizo.
    I am glad to meet him.
  4. Ελένη Eleni

    Είναι πολύ σημαντικός για εμάς.
    Einai poly simantikos gia emas.
    He is very important to us.

Sources

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Miranda Tanya
Miranda TanyaHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.
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