exceeding
v. · n. · adj. · adv.-
1 going past a limit (v.) B2 Upper Intermediategoing beyond a set limit, number, or amount.
the present participle of 'exceed', describing the act of surpassing a specific threshold, quantity, or expectation.
ExampleThe driver was stopped for exceeding the speed limit on the highway.
ExampleThe company reported quarterly earnings exceeding even the most optimistic forecasts, leading to a sharp rise in share price.
UsageOften used in formal reports or legal contexts regarding limits.
- surpassing
- outpacing
- topping
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2 the state of being over a limit (n.) C1 Advanced Formalthe act or state of being more than what is allowed or expected.
the condition of being in excess or the act of surpassing a boundary.
ExampleAny exceeding of the budget must be approved by the manager.
ExampleThe environmental agency monitors any exceeding of the permitted carbon emission levels by local factories.
UsageUsually functions as a gerund acting as a noun phrase subject or object.
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3 extraordinary (adj.) C2 Proficiency Archaic Literaryvery great or unusual in size or quality.
exceptional, extraordinary, or prodigious in degree or extent.
ExampleThe traveler spoke of the exceeding beauty of the hidden valley.
ExampleHe possessed an exceeding grace that charmed all who encountered him in the royal court.
Teacher's tipThis adjectival use is rare in modern speech; students will mostly encounter it in 19th-century literature or religious texts.
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4 extremely (adv.) C2 Proficiency Archaic Literaryto a very high degree; very.
used as an intensifier meaning 'exceedingly' or 'extremely'.
ExampleThe king was exceeding glad to hear the news of the victory.
ExampleThe task proved exceeding difficult for the young knight, testing his resolve to the absolute limit.
Teacher's tipModern English speakers almost exclusively use 'exceedingly' instead of 'exceeding' for this adverbial function.
From exceed + -ing.