exceptional

Everyday

1. Exceptional means extremely good, much better than usual. tree →
2. Exceptional means unusual and not likely to happen often; out of the ordinary. tree →

In the lessons

In school reports it praises excellent work; in formal rules «in exceptional circumstances» means only in rare cases. In stories it marks a character with a special talent. Phrases: exceptional talent, exceptional circumstances, exceptionally good.

Examples

• Her painting is exceptional; it won first prize. tree →
• He showed exceptional courage in the fire. tree →
• Homework is only excused in exceptional circumstances. tree →
• The weather was exceptionally hot for spring. tree →
• This is an exceptional case — it hardly ever happens. tree →
• The school helps exceptional pupils with extra challenges. tree →
• The orchestra gave an exceptional performance. tree →

Note

From «exception» (something that does not follow the rule). Do not confuse with «exceptionable» (rare: objectionable). Two meanings — «very good» and «unusual» — context tells which.