特别

• Pinyin: tè bié
• Hanzi breakdown: 特 = 牜 (ox radical) + 寺 (temple, phonetic); 别 = 另 (other) + 刂 (knife radical)

Meaning

Special; especially; particularly. Used to describe something outstanding or to emphasize degree.

Works as both an adjective meaning 'special/unique' and an adverb meaning 'especially/particularly.' As an adverb, it strengthens adjectives and verbs, similar to 很 but with more emphasis. Extremely common in both spoken and written Chinese at all levels.

Examples

1. 今天的天气特别好。 The weather today is especially nice.
2. 这个地方很特别，我很喜欢。 This place is very special — I really like it.
3. 她特别喜欢吃水果。 She especially likes eating fruit.

Usage Guide

Context: emphasis, description, everyday

Tone: emphatic

Do Say

• 这道菜特别好吃。(This dish is especially delicious.)
• 今天有什么特别的事吗？(Is there anything special today?)

Don't Say

• 他很特别地高兴。(Don't add 地 after 特别 when it modifies adjectives — say 他特别高兴, not 他特别地高兴.)

Origin & History

Compound of 特 (special/unique) + 别 (separate/different). Both characters carry a sense of distinction, reinforcing the meaning of 'out of the ordinary.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal