eminent
Definitions
Famous, respected, and highly distinguished within a field.
杰出的，显赫的，德高望重的
(of a quality) present to a notable degree; outstanding.
（品质）卓著的，显著的
Root Breakdown
Root-derivede- (out, up) + min (jut out, from minēre) + -ent (adj.) = 'jutting up above the rest.' Where prominent sticks forward, eminent rises up: an eminent scholar towers over their field. The word carries genuine respect — it is reserved for distinguished experts and authorities, not for mere celebrity.
Root min still carries 10 more wordsUsage Guide
- Register: eminent is high, formal praise — use it for distinguished experts, judges, scholars, never for a flashy celebrity.
- eminent vs imminent: a common spelling/pronunciation trap. eminent = distinguished; imminent = about to happen (im- 'upon'). 'An imminent threat' is coming soon; 'an eminent scientist' is famous.
- eminently (adv.) means 'to a notable degree, very' — eminently suitable, eminently reasonable.
- eminent domain (AmE legal): the government's power to take private property for public use.
Example Sentences
- 1.
The conference was opened by an eminent professor of physics.
- 2.
She is one of the most eminent historians of her generation.
- 3.
The plan seems eminently sensible.
Easily Confused
eminent vs imminent vs prominent — eminent = distinguished, highly respected (an eminent judge); imminent = about to happen very soon (imminent danger); prominent = noticeable, standing out (a prominent landmark). Eminent and prominent both mean 'standing out,' but eminent always implies high esteem; imminent is unrelated and only about timing.