French word

exceptionnel

Pronunciation

IPA/ɛksɛpsjonɛl/

Meaning

  • adjectivespecial

Example

C'est un moment exceptionnel.

It's a special moment.

Illustration for exceptionnel (special)

More examples

Ce concert était exceptionnel.

This concert was exceptional.

Core concept

Something that rises conspicuously above ordinary standards and becomes remarkable rather than merely different.

Common phrases

  • un événement exceptionnel

    an exceptional event

  • un service exceptionnel

    exceptional service

Similar words

remarquable: Distinctive or successful enough to attract attention and deserve recognition.
incroyable: So astonishing that it seems impossible or unreal.
impressionnant: Strongly affecting the observer through its power, scale, or beauty.

Definition in French

Qui dépasse nettement la norme en qualité, en intensité ou en rareté et qui suscite l'admiration ou la surprise.

Word origin

The French adjective was formed from exception with -el, a suffix ultimately related to Latin -alis and meaning connected with the noun.

Usage tips

  • C'est exceptionnel is strong praise or surprise, so it can sound excessive when used for a minor positive feature.

Other meanings

  • extraordinaryadjective
  • unusualadjective

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word