a special date

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a special date" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a date that holds particular significance or importance, such as an anniversary or a holiday. Example: "We are planning a surprise party for her on a special date that she will never forget."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

We don't have a special date night.

The New York Times

This was a special date for Northern Ireland.

The Guardian - Sport

"All those fantastic memories we have of May 13 , 2012- that date is a special date for City fans and that's been a little bit tarnished.

Independent

But, while always a special date for fans, this year's clash has been given extra spice by Dempsey's high-profile return to M.L.S. from England's Premier League.

The New York Times - Sports

Ads that hinge on a special date are an example of a marketing tactic called borrowed interest, in which advertisers try to involve themselves in big, topical events that the proverbial "everyone" is talking about.

The New York Times

A spokesman for the Sun said the paper was deeply disappointed at the ban, adding that numerous companies run promotions using the competition mechanic of winning a special date.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Spending more than $100 at dinner once felt like an amount reserved for a special date-night or birthday.

The Washington Post

Hundreds of young men and women have signed up to sit in a special dating section.

The New York Times - Sports

And in October 2005, Ms. Kelley spent a week coaching Mr. Anderson for a very special date.

The New York Times

"It was an important result for Portugal in a very special date for me," he wrote on Twitter shortly after full-time.

The Guardian - Sport

The July 14, is a very special date.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When planning an event around "a special date", consider the emotional significance the date holds for those involved to make the occasion more meaningful.

Common error

Be mindful that "a special date" may have different meanings across cultures. Research potential cultural implications before planning events to avoid unintentional offense or misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a special date" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It designates a particular day that is significant or memorable, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a special date" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to denote a day that holds particular significance. Ludwig AI shows that while the phrase is versatile and applicable across various contexts, it's essential to consider the specific meaning and cultural implications to avoid misunderstandings. Predominantly found in News & Media, the phrase maintains a neutral register, suitable for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant day

Emphasizes the importance or historical value of the date.

a notable date

Highlights the date's worthiness of attention or record.

a momentous occasion

Highlights the importance and celebratory aspect of the event.

a cherished occasion

Emphasizes the personal value and fondness associated with the date.

an important anniversary

Specifically refers to a date commemorating a past event.

a landmark day

Suggests a pivotal or transformative moment associated with the date.

a memorable day

Focuses on the likelihood of the date being remembered.

a festive celebration

Highlights the celebratory and joyful nature of the date.

a red-letter day

An idiom indicating a day of great importance or celebration.

a remarkable event

Emphasizes the unusual or extraordinary nature of the date.

FAQs

How can I use "a special date" in a sentence?

You can use "a special date" to refer to a day that is important or significant for a particular reason. For example, "We are celebrating our anniversary, which is "a special date" for us."

What are some alternatives to using "a special date"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a significant day", "a momentous occasion", or "an important anniversary".

Is it always appropriate to refer to something as "a special date"?

While generally acceptable, consider your audience and the context. In more formal settings, using a more precise term like "anniversary" or "commemoration" may be preferable. However, in personal or informal settings, "a special date" is perfectly suitable.

What makes a date "a special date"?

A date becomes "a special date" when it holds particular personal, historical, or cultural significance. This could be due to an anniversary, a birthday, a holiday, or any other event that makes the date memorable or important.