Quality: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'quality' to refer to the general standard or grade of something, particularly when differentiating between various levels of worth or merit. It can be used in both positive and neutral contexts.

• The quality of this fabric is outstanding.
• We need to maintain the quality of our products.

Use 'excellence' when highlighting a very high level of quality, skill, or virtue. It tends to have a very positive connotation.

• She received an award for academic excellence.
• This restaurant is known for its culinary excellence.

Use 'high standard' to emphasize strict or exacting quality expectations. It is often used in formal or professional settings.

• The company prides itself on maintaining a high standard of customer service.
• Our school has a high standard for academic achievement.

Use 'superiority' to denote a sense of being better or more valuable than something or someone else. This term can carry a slightly negative or competitive implication.

• He acted with a sense of superiority that annoyed everyone.
• Their product's superiority is evident in its innovative design.

Use this to describe the standard of something or someone. It can be positive or negative depending on the context.

• The quality of this product is outstanding.
• Poor quality food can lead to health issues.

Use this to talk about moral excellence or righteousness, often in a more formal or philosophical context.

• Patience is considered a virtue in many cultures.
• He is a person of great virtue and integrity.

Use this to discuss moral excellence or virtue in a person or thing. It conveys a positive connotation.

• Her goodness shines through in every kind act she does.
• The goodness of fresh fruits and vegetables cannot be overstated.

Use this to indicate the inherent value or worthiness of someone or something, often in terms of achievements or qualities.

• She received an award based on the merit of her research.
• The proposal has considerable merit and should be considered.

Use when discussing the general standard or grade of something, typically highlighting its overall excellence or worth.

• The quality of this fabric is outstanding.
• We need to ensure the quality of our products meets customer expectations.

Appropriate when referring to the clearness or lucidity of something, often used in contexts like communication, physical appearance, or sound.

• The clarity of her speech made the presentation easy to understand.
• The clarity of the water in the lake is breathtaking.

Best used when talking about faithfulness or accuracy in reproducing something, such as sound, image, or data. Often found in technical or detailed discussions.

• The fidelity of this recording is remarkable – it sounds just like the live performance.
• High fidelity equipment is crucial for our lab experiments.

Ideal for describing the distinctness of an image, object, or idea. Often used in photography, vision, or taste.

• The sharpness of the knife made cutting vegetables a breeze.
• This television has impressive picture sharpness.