Special (?)

[Bender]

What does it mean when someone says you are 'special'?

I have a vague idea of the informal term, but the term 'special' itself is ambiguous and could mean a number of things:

1) Highly valued
2) special like special needs people are special
3) mentally retarded
4) Unique and unorthodox
5) One of a kind
6) Of high ability and skill
7) generally misunderstood but are someone that 'has something about them'


It's difficult to define weather this kind of comment on someone could be a subtle insult and/or compliment.

 

[Duke]

You're right.

 

[Chronic]

Didn't you answer your own question?

 

[Lil KaMiKaZe]

or special like this thread is special

 

[S O F I]

Well, in your case, 2) and 3) apply the most, I'd say.

 

[Bender]

Didn't you answer your own question?

I did, but not with a satisfying conclusion. The question is still open.

Well, in your case, 2) and 3) apply the most, I'd say.

That's not a very charming.

 

[S O F I]

I did, but not with a satisfying conclusion. The question is still open.

It differs on a case to case basis. When somebody tells you that you're special, what made them say it? Did you do something out of the ordinary? Did you say something worthwhile? What tone did the person say it in? Did the person have a smile on his/her face? These are all questions that you could ask yourself. However, if you're a socialized person, this process occurs in an instant and you can tell why the person said it. There's no need to think deeply about it. You seem interested in this matter because you probably can't tell why people would say such a simple thing to you.

In your case, I honestly do think that if people tell you that you're special, they mean that you're a weirdo, but a gentle and nice one. Sort of naive, as well.

In the end, your parents should have let you out of the house more as a kid.

 

[SicC]

Im going with short bus for you bro.

pz

 

[Bender]

It differs on a case to case basis. When somebody tells you that you're special, what made them say it? Did you do something out of the ordinary? Did you say something worthwhile? What tone did the person say it in? Did the person have a smile on his/her face? These are all questions that you could ask yourself. However, if you're a socialized person, this process occurs in an instant and you can tell why the person said it. There's no need to think deeply about it. You seem interested in this matter because you probably can't tell why people would say such a simple thing to you.

In your case, I honestly do think that if people tell you that you're special, they mean that you're a weirdo, but a gentle and nice one. Sort of naive, as well.

In the end, your parents should have let you out of the house more as a kid.

The comment was made by my drunk assistant manager, I was sober at the time, just after work in the pub, and I was in no mood for debate or argument. My assistant manager knows I am good at my job, I am the best there and probably the most qualified in my department. My work is of an exceptional standard, cooking wise, I do every dish spot on. I even go the extra mile to make my dishes stand out. Which is why I ask, is this a personal type of comment or one of professional opinion. I have told all my colleagues that I am thinking of leaving to work in a three/four star hotel. They know I dont need to stay there. I am better than that.

 

[keco52]

Special is such a generic word. As a compliment it just sounds creepy.

Maybe they didn't mean to say you were a retard but they probably weren't sincere if all they could come up with was 'special'.

 

[Bender]

Special is such a generic word. As a compliment it just sounds creepy.

Maybe they didn't mean to say you were a retard but they probably weren't sincere if all they could come up with was 'special'.

Generic, yes. This is the context in which I am applying the word.


I defer from getting personal with my colleagues as a general rule. It is not professional. What you have said about sincerity keco, underlines the professional integrity of the judgement of my management, and its subsequent lack.

 

[keco52]

Complimenting your work is not getting personal.

 

[Bender]

Complimenting your work is not getting personal.

The conversation was nothing to do with work. The conversation was based on a comment that I made, that ended up being taken out of context. Be sure though, I have put them right on it now that I have had time to think and respond.