setting a great example or outstanding

exemplary

adjective|/ɪɡˈzem.plə.ri/

Serving as an outstanding model or example; extremely good

Examples

In a meeting

Maria's work ethic has been exemplary throughout this challenging project.

Over coffee

The customer service at that restaurant was exemplary.

Why this word

excellent

exemplary means worthy of serving as a model or example, excellent just means very good

outstanding

exemplary emphasizes being a standard for others, outstanding emphasizes superiority

ideal

exemplary describes actual achievement worth emulating, ideal describes theoretical perfection

Usage tip

Use when praising someone or something as a model worth following; stronger than just 'good' or 'excellent'.

Etymology

Latin 'exemplaris' meaning 'serving as example' from 'exemplum' (sample, example)

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