Pronunciation: [ɪspˈɛʃə͡l] (IPA) 
The spelling of "especial" can be confusing due to the unusual position of the letter "e". In IPA phonetic transcription, the word's pronunciation is /ɪˈspɛʃəl/. This reveals that the "e" is pronounced as a short "i" sound, followed by "s", "p", "e", and "sh" sounds, ending with a neutral vowel "ə" and an "l" sound. Remembering this sequence of sounds can help ensure the correct spelling of "especial."
Especial is an adjective that is primarily used to convey the idea or notion of something being exceptional, particular, or distinctive in comparison to others of its kind. It refers to something that holds a remarkable or unique quality that sets it apart from the ordinary or the general.
When describing a person, especial indicates that they possess distinctive characteristics or qualities that make them extraordinary or exceptional. It implies that they stand out from the crowd due to their exceptional talents, abilities, or achievements.
In a more specific context, especial can also denote something that is specifically aimed at or designed for a particular purpose or person. It suggests that the object or action has been customized or tailored to fit the needs, preferences, or requirements of a specific individual or situation.
The term especial is often used in a positive sense, highlighting the exceptional, exceptional, or extraordinary nature of something or someone. It emphasizes uniqueness, distinction, or superiority either in terms of quality, value, or significance.
Though similar to the word "special", especial is typically used in a slightly different sense. While special can denote something that is distinctive or significant, especial usually carries a stronger connotation of being outstanding, exceptional, or unparalleled in comparison.
Chief; principal; particular.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word especial originated from the Old French word especial, which in turn derived from the Latin word specialis. Specialis is the adjective form of the Latin noun species, meaning kind or sort. Over time, especial evolved to become the English word special with similar meaning. However, especial is now less frequently used in comparison to special.
