The adjective especial is not just a misheard form of special. It's a word in its own right, meaning exceptional or of special importance. While special is synonymous with specific or particular, especial is synonymouswith uncommon or exceptional. Think of especial in relation to its corresponding adverb, especially. Especially i…See more on grammarist
Explore further
Especial vs Special
WEBSpecial conveys a sense of unusual quality. Especial conveys a sense of more specificity. Compare: "This is a special gift for you." with "This gift is especially for you."