特別
tokubetsu[to̞kɯ̟be̞t͡sɨ]
In Japanese, 'special' is expressed as 特別 (tokubetsu).
特別 is used to describe something of particular interest or value. It can refer to things that are certain, dear, beloved or favored.
Meaning: of particular interest or value, certain, dear, beloved, favored (adj)
How does it change in a sentence?
To use this word as an adjective to modify a noun directly, 特別 usually takes the particle な to become 特別な. To use it as an adverb meaning 'specially' or 'particularly', change the ending to 特別に.
How do you pronounce it?
tokubetsu
Did you know?
- Adding 特別 to a food item, such as 特別盛り for 'special serving', usually indicates a larger portion size rather than a different flavor.
- While 特別 describes something special, Japanese speakers often use 大切 to describe a person who is 'special' in terms of being precious or important to them.
- The phrase 特別に can be used by a speaker to imply they are doing a favor that is outside their usual rules or duties, similar to saying 'just this once'.
Examples in context
- 君は特別だよ。You're special.This sentence is useful for telling someone they are special using 特別.Tatoeba #9463886 by small_snow, translation #1475781 by CM
- トムは特別な子です。Tom is a special child.This sentence is useful for describing a special child using 特別.Tatoeba #7577154 by Nishin, translation #7837406 by Bailedagaiola
- 今日は特別な日だね。Today is a special day.This sentence is useful for noting that today is a special day using 特別.Tatoeba #11995506 by small_snow, translation #2617098 by bufo
- 彼の演説は特別なものだった。His speech was something special.
- 彼女は独特な魅力を持っている。She has a special charm.
- そのプレゼントは特別な意味を持っているよ。That gift has a special meaning.
- 今日はスペシャルな一日だね！Today is a special day!
- 家族と過ごす時間は特別だ。Time spent with family is special.
- 君は特別な存在だ。You are a special presence.
- この場所は独特な雰囲気を持っている。This place has a unique atmosphere.
- 彼のアドバイスは特別に有益だった。His advice was especially helpful.
- 今日の晩ごはんはスペシャルメニューだ。Today's dinner is a special menu.
- 38 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Kenta and Himari are talking about a gift.
- 健太 Kentaこれは陽葵への特別なプレゼントだよ。Kore wa Himari e no tokubetsu na purezento dayo.This is a special present for you, Himari.
- 陽葵 Himariわあ、ありがとう！嬉しい！Waa, arigato! Ureshii!Wow, thank you! I'm so happy!
- 健太 Kenta大切にしてね。Taisetsu ni shite ne.Please take good care of it.
- 陽葵 Himariうん、私にとって特別な宝物にするね。Un, watashi ni totte tokubetsu na takaramono ni suru ne.Yes, I'll make it a special treasure to me.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 特別, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
