C1nounformal3K

Excellence

UK /["/ˈeksələns/"]/US /["/ˈeksələns/"]/

Definition

the quality of being extremely good

In simple words: Being very good at something.

Examples

  • a reputation for academic excellence
  • The hospital is recognized as **a centre of excellence** in research and teaching.
  • We demand excellence here at Trinity Hill School.
  • The college aims to be a world centre of excellence in the field of marine biology.
  • The mission of the festival is to promote excellence in children's films.
  • This award recognizes excellence in urban design.
  • The restaurant's standards of excellence have won it several awards.
  • The school strives for academic excellence.
  • her relentless pursuit of professional excellence
  • This book shows the degree of artistic excellence the community has now achieved.

Usage notes

Used in formal contexts like education, awards, or professional settings to describe high quality or outstanding performance. Avoid in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Excellence sounds like 'excellent cell' - imagine a top-notch cell phone that does everything perfectly.

Collocations

  • academic
  • artistic
  • athletic
  • degree
  • level
  • standard
  • pursue
  • strive for
  • demand
  • excellence in
  • a centre/​center of excellence
  • the pursuit of excellence

Synonyms

  • superiority
  • brilliance
  • quality
  • flawlessness
  • distinction

Antonyms

  • mediocrity
  • inferiority

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'excellent' which is an adjective.
  • Using it in informal contexts where 'good' would be more appropriate.
  • Failing to recognize it as a noun; using it as a verb mistakenly.