What makes something special? It would appear like all existing things, people and other things, are special by the very fact that they are unique, particular, individuals. But "special" has special connotations, which imply that the special thing is an extraordinary individual, or something like that.

What is really the case here? Are these two distinct meanings of the word "special"? Or is it the case that every existing thing, person or otherwise, is extraordinary just by virtue of being a particular individual? In this case, what appears like two distinct meanings of the word, are really one and the same meaning. To be a unique individual is to be extraordinary.