adjective HSK 4
special · particular · exceptional · unusual
Meaning
特殊 describes something that stands out from the ordinary or has distinct characteristics that make it different from others. It emphasizes uniqueness or exceptional qualities that require special attention or treatment.
Usage
Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to describe circumstances, cases, people, or things that deviate from the norm. Often appears in phrases like 特殊情况 (special circumstances) or 特殊待遇 (special treatment). More neutral than 奇怪 (strange) and emphasizes distinctiveness rather than oddness.
Examples
- 01由于特殊情况，我们今天提前下班。, .Due to special circumstances, we're getting off work early today.
- 02这个病人需要特殊护理。.This patient needs special care.
Characters
Common collocations
- 特殊情况special circumstances
- 特殊待遇special treatment
- 特殊教育special education
- 特殊性particularity, special nature
Antonyms
Origin
Both characters reinforce the concept of distinctiveness. 特 originally meant a male animal (bull) set apart, later extending to mean 'special.' 殊 means 'different' or 'to cut off,' emphasizing separation from the ordinary.