Can I say "unique" instead of "special"?
Native speaker’s answer
Rebecca
Yes, I believe you could replace "special" with "unique" here. "Unique" means being the only one of its kind. "Special" means not ordinary or usual. These words aren't always interchangeable, but it would definitely work here. Ex: She is a very special/unique cat. Ex: The smoothie has a special/unique blend of cherries, pomegranates, and arugula.