exceptional

Definitions

exception + -al (relating to) = "forming an exception." Something so far outside the ordinary that it's an exception — and since standing out is usually praise, it came to mean "outstandingly good."

Common Collocations

• 1.exceptional ability非凡的能力
• 2.exceptional circumstances特殊情况
• 3.exceptional quality卓越的品质

Example Sentences

• 1.

  She has exceptional talent for languages.

• 2.

  We only grant extensions in exceptional circumstances.

Easily Confused

exceptional vs exceptionable: easy to mix up. exceptional = outstanding (very good) OR unusual. exceptionable = objectionable, likely to cause offense (rare, negative). They are nearly opposite in tone.