outstanding
UK/aʊt'stændɪŋ/US/.aut'stændiŋ/
TOEFLB1
Definitions
adj.
Exceptionally good; excellent
杰出的，出色的
adj.
Not yet paid, settled, or dealt with
未付清的，未解决的
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedout-surpassing, external
+
standingstand, set, place
=outstanding
out- (beyond) + standing = literally 'standing out.' If you stand out above others, you are excellent. But there is a second, opposite-feeling sense: a bill that 'stands out' still unpaid is outstanding — it sticks out as unfinished.
Why It Means This
The two senses both come from 'standing out,' but in opposite directions: people and work that stand out are excellent; debts and tasks that stand out are still hanging there, unsettled. Context decides — 'an outstanding student' praises, 'an outstanding balance' bills you.
Common Collocations
- 1.outstanding performance杰出表现
- 2.outstanding achievement卓越成就
- 3.outstanding debt未付债务
Example Sentences
- 1.
She gave an outstanding performance on stage.
- 2.
There is still an outstanding balance on your account.