Remarkable vs Wonderful

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

Remarkable

Top 2,000 (common)B2adjective

Wonderful

Top 1,000 (very common)A1adjective
Most common: Wonderful
 RemarkableWonderful
Pronunciation🇬🇧 /["/rɪˈmɑːkəbl/"]/🇺🇸 /["/rɪˈmɑːrkəbl/"]/🇬🇧 /["/ˈwʌndəfl/"]/🇺🇸 /["/ˈwʌndərfl/"]/
MeaningVery special or unusual, worth noticing.Very good or great; something that makes you feel happy.
ExampleThe scientist made a remarkable discovery that changed the field forever.The view from the top of the mountain was wonderful.
RegisterNeutralNeutral
How commonTop 2,000 (common)Top 1,000 (very common)
CEFR levelB2A1
Part of speechadjectiveadjective
Collocationsbe, seem, absolutely, just, most, forbe, feel, look, most, really, absolutely, strange and wonderful, weird and wonderful
Antonymsordinary, unremarkable, mundaneterrible, awful, bad
Common mistakesConfused with 'remarkable' and 'notable', which have subtle differences in connotation., Using 'remarkable' in a negative context, which doesn't fit its positive meaning., Overusing it; it can sound exaggerated if used too frequently.Using 'wonderful' too often; it can sound repetitive., Mixing up with 'wonderfull' which is incorrect., Confusing 'wonderful' with 'wonder' which has a different meaning.
Usage notesUse 'remarkable' to describe something that is impressive, surprising, or extraordinary. It is neutral in tone, so it can be used in most contexts, including both spoken and written language. Avoid using it in overly casual conversations where simpler terms may suffice.Use 'wonderful' to describe experiences, events, or things that bring joy. It’s appropriate in both spoken and written English but avoid using it in overly casual contexts.

Frequently asked questions: Remarkable vs Wonderful

What's the difference between Remarkable and Wonderful?

Remarkable: Very special or unusual, worth noticing. Wonderful: Very good or great; something that makes you feel happy.

Which is more common: Remarkable and Wonderful?

Wonderful is the most common in everyday English.

Which is more advanced: Remarkable and Wonderful?

Remarkable is the highest level, at B2, on the CEFR scale.

Are Remarkable and Wonderful the same CEFR level?

Remarkable: B2, Wonderful: A1 on the CEFR scale.

What part of speech are Remarkable and Wonderful?

Remarkable: adjective, Wonderful: adjective.

Can you show an example of each?

Remarkable: The scientist made a remarkable discovery that changed the field forever. Wonderful: The view from the top of the mountain was wonderful.

Can I use Remarkable and Wonderful interchangeably?

Not always. Remarkable and Wonderful are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.

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