Exceptional: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone or something far above the usual in quality. Often implies rarity or uniqueness.

• Her exceptional talent was evident from a young age.
• This is an exceptional case that requires special attention.

Used to indicate someone or something that stands out significantly from the rest, often due to excellence in a particular area.

• His outstanding contributions to the field were recognized with an award.
• The student's performance was outstanding this semester.

Used to describe something very unusual or remarkable, often astonishing.

• She had an extraordinary ability to understand complex concepts quickly.
• The team made an extraordinary effort to win the championship.

Used to highlight something surprising or worthy of attention due to its notable quality.

• Her recovery from the illness was remarkable.
• The museum has a remarkable collection of ancient artifacts.

Used to describe something that is of the highest possible quality or extremely good.

• The chef prepared a superb dinner for the guests.
• Her performance was simply superb; everyone was impressed.

Used to indicate very high quality, especially in terms of performance or results.

• He received excellent grades on his exams.
• The meal was excellent, far better than expected.

Used to describe something extremely good or outstanding, often better than expected.

• Her performance in the play was exceptional
• The service at this hotel is exceptional

Used for something not satisfactory or not allowed, indicating it does not meet standards or expectations.

• His behavior at the meeting was unacceptable
• The delay in response time is unacceptable

Used to describe something extremely bad or of very low quality.

• The quality of the product was abysmal
• His performance in the game was abysmal

Used for something extremely evil, cruel, or brutal, often worse than 'appalling'.

• The crime was simply atrocious
• Their treatment of the prisoners was atrocious

Used when something is shockingly bad or horrifying, often causing disgust or fear.

• The living conditions in that area are appalling
• The news of the disaster was appalling

Used to describe something extremely unpleasant, horrifying, or terrible.

• The accident was horrendous
• The weather today has been horrendous