adj
Uncommon
exemplary
ihg-ZEHMP-luh-ree
Exemplary (adj) means So good that it serves as a model for others to follow. Example: “Her exemplary conduct earned her a promotion within a year.”
adj
1
So good that it serves as a model for others to follow.
"Her exemplary conduct earned her a promotion within a year."
"The students showed exemplary behavior on the school trip."
2
Serving as a warning to others.
"The judge handed down an exemplary sentence to deter future offenders."
How to use exemplary
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishWorth using as an example — either because it's excellent, or as a warning.
Common pairings
exemplary behavior
exemplary conduct
exemplary damages
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Word forms
- Plural
- exemplaries
- Comparative
- more exemplary
- Superlative
- most exemplary
Fill the gap
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Her _____ conduct earned her a promotion within a year.
Etymology
From Latin exemplaris, from exemplum, "example, sample."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for exemplary
See all rhymes for exemplary →Frequently asked questions
What does “exemplary” mean?
The word “exemplary” means so good that it serves as a model for others to follow. In plain terms, worth using as an example — either because it's excellent, or as a warning.
How do you pronounce “exemplary”?
“Exemplary” is pronounced ihg-ZEHMP-luh-ree (/ɪɡˈzɛmpləɹi/ in IPA).
How do you use “exemplary” in a sentence?
Here is “exemplary” used in a sentence: “Her exemplary conduct earned her a promotion within a year.”
What is another word for “exemplary”?
Words with a similar meaning to “exemplary” include exemplar and paradigm.
What part of speech is “exemplary”?
“Exemplary” is an adjective.
Where does the word “exemplary” come from?
The word “exemplary” comes from Latin. From Latin exemplaris, from exemplum, "example, sample.".
Is “exemplary” a common word?
“Exemplary” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “exemplary” have?
“Exemplary” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: so good that it serves as a model for others to follow.
