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Preeminence: meaning, definitions and examples

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preeminence

[ˈpriːˈɛmɪnəns ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

influence

The fact of surpassing all others; superiority. It refers to the state of being superior in status or rank.

Synonyms

dominance, excellence, superiority, supremacy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
preeminence

Use when highlighting someone's exceptional status or leading position in a particular field or activity.

  • The preeminence of the company in the tech industry is unquestionable
  • She achieved preeminence in her academic career through hard work and dedication
superiority

Used to indicate a higher rank, quality, or importance, sometimes with an implication of arrogance.

  • He demonstrated his superiority by outperforming all his peers
  • The superiority of their products justifies their higher prices
supremacy

Typically refers to ultimate power, authority, or superiority over others, often used in historical or political contexts.

  • The empire's military supremacy was unmatched at the time
  • Discussions about racial supremacy should be approached with caution
dominance

Often used to describe control, power, or influence over others, sometimes with a slightly negative connotation.

  • The company's dominance in the market has led to reduced competition
  • His dominance in the sport has lasted for over a decade
excellence

Best for emphasizing high quality or outstanding performance in a specific area.

  • She received an award for her excellence in teaching
  • The program is known for its excellence in engineering education

Examples of usage

  • His preeminence in the scientific community is well recognized.
  • She achieved preeminence in the field of literature through her groundbreaking work.
  • The company's preeminence in the market is due to its innovative products.
  • The team's preeminence in the championship was evident from the beginning.
  • Despite facing challenges, she maintained her preeminence in the industry.
Context #2 | Noun

quality

The quality of being outstanding or distinguished above others. It refers to exceptional excellence or prominence.

Synonyms

distinction, eminence, prominence, standing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
preeminence

Use when describing someone or something that stands out above all others in a particular field or area.

  • Her preeminence in the field of medicine is undisputed.
  • The company’s preeminence in technology has lasted for decades.
distinction

Ideal for highlighting a unique characteristic that sets someone or something apart from others, often in a positive way.

  • He graduated with distinction from the university.
  • Her work is of such distinction that it has won several awards.
eminence

Appropriate for referring to someone of high rank or great achievement, often in a professional or intellectual context.

  • The scientist's eminence in the field of biology is well-recognized.
  • She has achieved eminence as a classical musician.
standing

Typically refers to social or professional rank or status, indicating how respected or influential someone is in a particular group.

  • His standing in the academic community is very high.
  • She has a strong standing in her professional network.
prominence

Used to indicate something or someone that is easily noticeable or widely recognized, but not necessarily superior.

  • The athlete quickly rose to prominence after winning the championship.
  • The debate brought his policies to prominence.

Examples of usage

  • The preeminence of his work in the art world is unquestionable.
  • Her preeminence as a leader is evident in her ability to inspire others.
  • The university's preeminence in research attracts top scholars from around the world.
  • The preeminence of this brand is due to its commitment to quality and innovation.
  • His preeminence as a musician is recognized worldwide.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'praeeminentia,' which means 'superiority.'
  • It is made up of two parts: 'pre-' meaning 'before' and 'eminere,' meaning 'to stand out,' emphasizing something that stands out the most.
  • The term has been used since the 14th century, reflecting its long-standing importance in discussions of status and ranking.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers like Aristotle often discussed preeminence in the context of virtue, suggesting that a virtuous person naturally stands out amongst others.
  • In many philosophical debates, preeminence relates to ethical leadership and moral authority in society.
  • The concept is central in political philosophy to describe the ideal position of a just ruler or government.

Art and Literature

  • In literature, characters who achieve preeminence often face conflict, illustrating the complexities of power and influence.
  • Many renowned artists are considered preeminent figures in their fields, shaping movements that influence generations.
  • The idea of preeminence is often explored in texts discussing the nature of success and societal recognition.

Science and Technology

  • In ecology, a preeminent species is one that plays a critical role in maintaining the structure of an ecological community.
  • In technology, companies like Apple and Google have achieved preeminence within their industries due to innovation and market influence.
  • Research often highlights the preeminence of certain scientific theories that reshape our understanding of the world.

Translations

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Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,947, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.