special feeling for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "special feeling for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a particular affection or emotional connection towards someone or something. Example: "She has a special feeling for her childhood home, filled with memories and nostalgia."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

Kook lacked, presumably, "a special feeling for Israel").

The New Yorker

It's no secret that Wolfgang Tillmans has a special feeling for the men around him.

The New York Times

"Obama has no special feeling for us" is a familiar refrain.

The New Yorker

"Maybe this gives me a special feeling for what O'Driscoll is doing.

Independent

"She has a very special feeling for words and atmosphere and mood".

The Guardian - Music

I ask only because our proprietor is asthmatic and he has a special feeling for asthmatics.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

If you're asking a girl to prom as a way of declaring that you have special feelings for her, then you can make her feel special by promposing in a romantic way, or letting her see that you like her as more than a friend after you prompose in a funny or creative way.

WikiHow

Ms. Chang clearly has special feelings for the Bruch concerto.

The New York Times - Arts

It's not that Putin has any special feelings for Assad.

The New Yorker

But I have special feelings for the elephants here at the circus.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Paul was trying to accommodate the studio," explained Mr. De Niro, who came on board at that point, drawn by what he called Mr. Weitz's "special feelings" for the material.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "special feeling for" when you want to express a nuanced sense of affection, appreciation, or empathy that goes beyond mere liking. This phrase often implies a deeper, more personal connection.

Common error

While "special feeling for" is a valid expression, avoid using it excessively in your writing. Overuse can dilute its impact. Instead, vary your language by using synonyms like "deep affection for" or "strong attachment to" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "special feeling for" functions as a descriptive element, typically acting as a predicate complement or part of an adjectival phrase. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, commonly expressing affection or emotional connection.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Unknown

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "special feeling for" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to express a particular affection, appreciation, or empathy. According to Ludwig, it is correct and usable in written English. It appears most often in News & Media sources and is versatile enough for neutral to professional contexts. To avoid overuse, writers should consider alternatives such as "particular fondness for" or "distinct appreciation of". The phrase effectively conveys a deeper, more personal connection, making it a valuable tool for expressing nuanced emotions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

particular fondness for

Emphasizes a sense of affection and preference.

distinct appreciation of

Highlights a unique understanding and valuing of something.

unique attachment to

Stresses a strong emotional bond that is not commonly shared.

personal connection with

Focuses on an individual's sense of belonging and relationship.

deep resonance with

Indicates a profound emotional or intellectual agreement or sympathy.

exceptional affinity for

Highlights a natural liking or sympathy for someone or something.

remarkable empathy towards

Emphasizes the ability to understand and share the feelings of another.

strong sentiment toward

Indicates a powerful emotional opinion or attitude.

marked inclination toward

Highlights a noticeable preference or tendency.

pronounced sensitivity to

Focuses on an acute awareness and responsiveness to something.

FAQs

How can I use "special feeling for" in a sentence?

You can use "special feeling for" to express a particular fondness or emotional connection. For instance, "She has a "special feeling for" her childhood home" indicates a sentimental attachment.

What are some alternatives to "special feeling for"?

You can use alternatives like "particular fondness for", "distinct appreciation of", or "unique attachment to" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "special feeling for"?

Yes, "special feeling for" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English. It follows the standard structure of an adjective modifying a noun followed by a preposition.

What's the difference between "special feeling for" and "strong affinity for"?

While both phrases convey a sense of liking, "special feeling for" often implies a more personal or sentimental connection, whereas "strong affinity for" suggests a natural compatibility or liking based on shared qualities or interests.