The word 特别 is formed by combining two characters, each contributing to its overall meaning. The first character, 特, originally depicted a sacrificial ox (牛) next to an altar (寺), carrying connotations of something single, unique, and outstanding. The second character, 别, is composed of a knife (刂) beside bones (另), representing the idea of separation or distinction. When joined, the characters fuse their core ideas: 特 (unique) + 别 (separate) together create the concept of "special" or "particular", something set apart from the ordinary due to its distinctive qualities.