C1adjective 2K

Exceptional

🇬🇧 UK /["/ɪkˈsepʃənl/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ɪkˈsepʃənl/"]/

Meaning of Exceptional

unusually good

In simple words: Very good or unusual; better than normal.

Exceptional in a sentence

• Her exceptional talent in mathematics earned her a scholarship to the university.
• The restaurant is known for its exceptional service and delicious cuisine.
• He showed exceptional courage during the rescue operation.
• This exceptional case requires special attention from the management team.
• The company made an exceptional decision to invest in renewable energy.
• There was an exceptional increase in demand after the product launch.
• Exceptional circumstances allowed them to extend the deadline beyond the usual limits.

How to use Exceptional

Use 'exceptional' to describe something that stands out positively. It’s appropriate in both professional and everyday contexts, but avoid using it too frequently to maintain its impact.

Grammar pattern

exceptional + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'exception' — something unusual or different from the norm.

Related words

Collocations with Exceptional

• be
• remain
• consider somebody/​something
• highly
• pretty
• really
• nothing exceptional
• something exceptional

Synonyms for Exceptional

• outstanding

Opposites of Exceptional

• ordinary
• common
• average

Common mistakes with Exceptional

• Confused with 'exceptional' vs 'exceptionable' — the latter means objectionable.
• Using 'exceptional' incorrectly as a verb.
• Mispronouncing the word, leading to misunderstanding.

Frequently asked questions about Exceptional

What does Exceptional mean?

Very good or unusual; better than normal.

What is the definition of Exceptional?

unusually good

How do you use Exceptional in a sentence?

Her exceptional talent in mathematics earned her a scholarship to the university.

Can you give another example of Exceptional?

The restaurant is known for its exceptional service and delicious cuisine.

What are synonyms for Exceptional?

Common alternatives include outstanding.

What is the opposite of Exceptional?

Opposite meanings include ordinary, common, average.

What words go with Exceptional?

It commonly pairs with be, remain, consider somebody/​something, highly, pretty, really, nothing exceptional, something exceptional.

What are common mistakes when using Exceptional?

Confused with 'exceptional' vs 'exceptionable' — the latter means objectionable. Using 'exceptional' incorrectly as a verb. Mispronouncing the word, leading to misunderstanding.

How do you pronounce Exceptional?

US: /["/ɪkˈsepʃənl/"]/, UK: /["/ɪkˈsepʃənl/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Exceptional?

Use 'exceptional' to describe something that stands out positively. It’s appropriate in both professional and everyday contexts, but avoid using it too frequently to maintain its impact.

What CEFR level is Exceptional?

"Exceptional" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.