student asking question

What is the difference between "extraordinary" and "special"?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

As adjectives the difference between "extraordinary" and "special" is that "extraordinary" means not ordinary. It means that something or someone is exceptional or unusual compared to the ordinary. However "special" is usually used to identify a unique or unusual quality in someone or something. Someone or something can be "special" without being "extraordinary" and vice versa. The two are not synonyms and should not really be used interchangeably. Ex: Do you have any special plans for the weekend? Ex: He's and extraordinary athlete. Ex: There is going to be a special event at work. Ex: I had an extraordinary experience at work today.

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