1A limited-express train (as run by JR and similar operators) for which a special express ticket is required; it stops at fewer stations than a local train. Short for "特別急行."
東京駅発の特急に乗って名古屋へ向かった。
I took the limited-express departing Tokyo Station to Nagoya.
この特急は指定席のみなので、事前に特急券を買ってください。
This limited express has only reserved seats, so please buy an express ticket in advance.
特急を使えば、普通列車より1時間早く着く。
If you take the limited express, you'll arrive an hour earlier than on a local train.
2The term used by private railways such as Keiō, Keikyu, Hankyū, and Hanshin for a fast train that stops at fewer stations; operational details vary by company.
京王線の特急は主要駅だけに停まる。
The Keio Line limited express stops only at major stations.
通勤時間帯は私鉄の特急も混雑することが多い。
Even private-railway limited expresses are often crowded during rush hour.
3A colloquial expression meaning "in a great hurry" or "at top speed."
特急で用事を済ませて戻らなければならない。
I have to finish the errand in a hurry and get back.
彼は特急で仕事を片付けようとしている。
He's trying to wrap up the work at top speed.