Spanish word

excepcional

Pronunciation

IPA/eksθepθjoˈnal/

Meaning

  • adjectiveexceptional

Example

Su rendimiento fue excepcional.

His performance was exceptional.

Illustration for excepcional (exceptional)

More examples

Es una persona excepcional en su campo.

They are an exceptional person in their field.

Core concept

One bright star shining much larger than the surrounding stars.

Common phrases

  • persona excepcional

    exceptional person

  • habilidad excepcional

    exceptional ability

  • caso excepcional

    exceptional case

Similar words

extraordinario: Beyond the ordinary in degree or effect, striking and deserving clear attention.
sobresaliente: Superior in measurable performance or quality, clearly standing out among peers.
notable: Having qualities that catch attention or show importance, noticeable and relevant.
singular: Rarely occurring and distinct from the norm, notable for its uncommon character.

Definition in Spanish

Que constituye una excepción a la norma o a lo habitual, o que destaca por su calidad o rareza.

Word origin

Derived from excepción plus -al and ultimately from Latin excipere 'take out' (ex- 'out' + capere 'take'), carrying the sense 'set apart' that produces 'standing out' or exceptional quality.

Usage tips

  • With people or work excepcional implies praise; with situations it signals deviation, and pairing it with talento, rendimiento, or situación clarifies the meaning.

Other meanings

  • outstandingadjective
  • excellentadjective

Opposites

Related words

  • excepciónexceptionnoun
  • excepcionalmenteexceptionallyadverb

Word lists with this word