Unexceptional Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

😐

Add to dictionary

unexceptional

[ʌnɪkˈsɛpʃ(ə)n(ə)l ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

ordinary

Not special or outstanding; average or unremarkable.

Synonyms

average, common, mediocre, ordinary.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
unexceptional	Used to describe something that lacks any standout qualities or features. Often neutral but can imply simplicity or lack of interest. She had an unexceptional performance in the play The restaurant offers unexceptional service
ordinary	Used to describe something that is plain, typical, and lacking distinctive features. It is mostly neutral but can imply plainness or lack of excitement. It's just an ordinary day at the office Her style is very ordinary and doesn't stand out
average	Describes something that is typical or common, not standing out in any way, often used when comparing to a standard or norm. He got average grades in school The product received average reviews from customers
common	Implying that something is regularly found or occurs frequently. Often indicates typicality but can sometimes have a slightly negative connotation if implying lack of uniqueness. It’s common for people to feel nervous before a test Cold is a common illness during the winter
mediocre	Describes something that is of low to moderate quality, often carrying a slightly negative connotation implying disappointment or insufficiency. The movie was mediocre and not worth the ticket price He settled for a mediocre job because he needed the money

Examples of usage

He was an unexceptional student in high school.
The movie received unexceptional reviews from critics.
The hotel offered unexceptional service to its guests.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Studies suggest that people often seek out experiences and items that are exceptional, with average often being perceived as less satisfying.
The 'mere exposure effect' shows that familiarity, sometimes linked to the unexceptional, can increase comfort but might reduce excitement.
Individuals may develop a bias towards 'exceptional' traits in themselves and others, leading to a disconnect with the everyday.

Pop Culture

In many movies and books, characters who are unexceptional often undergo a transformation, emphasizing the journey towards becoming extraordinary.
Reality television often celebrates the unexceptional, providing a platform for average individuals to gain fame and recognition.
The term is frequently used in reviews to describe products or performances that do not stand out in a crowded market.

Education

In an educational context, unexceptional work might reflect a lack of effort or engagement, prompting educators to inspire more creativity.
Curriculums often encourage children to strive for excellence, which can sometimes lead to undervaluing average achievements.
The idea of unexceptional also plays a role in discussions about standardized testing, where average performance often becomes the goal.

Literature

Many authors use unexceptional characters to convey deeper themes about life’s struggles and the beauty of the ordinary.
The concept often appears in realism literature, where everyday life, rather than exceptional events, takes center stage.
Frank O'Hara’s poetry frequently explores the unexceptional aspects of daily life, showcasing their intrinsic value.

Origin of 'unexceptional'

Main points about word origin

The word combines 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'exceptional', which comes from the Latin 'excipere', meaning 'to take out'.
It first appeared in English in the late 19th century, highlighting a growing focus on average qualities in society.
The prefix 'un-' is often used in English to negate the meaning of words, showing the flexibility of the language.

The word 'unexceptional' originated from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'exceptional' meaning 'unusually good or outstanding'. It first appeared in the mid-19th century. The term is commonly used to describe something that is not extraordinary or remarkable, but rather average or ordinary.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,586 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

...
33583 demonology
33584 selflessly
33585 euclidean
33586 unexceptional
33587 caning
33588 aromatherapy
33589 infuriate
...