特殊

• Pinyin: tè shū
• Hanzi breakdown: 特 = 牛 (cow) + 寺 (temple, phonetic component); 殊 = 歹 (bad/death radical) + 朱 (red, phonetic component)

Meaning

Special; exceptional; unusual; out of the ordinary. Describes something that differs significantly from what is standard or typical.

Can be used positively (unique, exceptional) or neutrally (out of the ordinary). Common in academic, professional, and formal contexts. More formal and objective than 特别, which is more colloquial. Often appears in set phrases such as 特殊情况 (special circumstances) and 特殊群体 (special groups).

Examples

1. 这个孩子有特殊的音乐才能，弹钢琴非常出色。 This child has exceptional musical talent and plays the piano very well.
2. 遇到特殊情况时，请立刻联系负责人。 If you encounter a special situation, please contact the person in charge immediately.
3. 这种植物对生长环境有特殊的要求，不能随便种植。 This plant has special requirements for its growing environment and cannot be planted just anywhere.

Usage Guide

Context: education, professional, everyday

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 他的情况比较特殊，需要特别处理。(His situation is rather special and requires special handling.)
• 这次会议讨论了特殊群体的教育需求。(This meeting discussed the educational needs of special groups.)

Don't Say

• 今天的天气特殊好。(Don't use 特殊 as an adverb meaning 'especially' — use 特别 or 格外 instead, as in 今天的天气特别好.)

Origin & History

Compound of 特 (special/particular) and 殊 (different/outstanding), together emphasising something markedly distinct.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal