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exemplary

adj.
C1 Advanced US //ɪɡˈzɛmpɫɝi// UK //ɛɡzˈɛmpləɹi// ex·em·plary Archaic

adj. serving as a perfect example of something. You use this to describe someone's behavior or work when it is so good that others should copy it.

adj. serving as a desirable model; representing the best of its kind. Often used in formal contexts to praise conduct, performance, or character.


SIMPLE

The student received an award for her exemplary behavior.

CONTEXTUAL

The company's exemplary safety record has made it a leader in the manufacturing industry.

COMPLEX

The judge noted that the defendant had led an exemplary life prior to this incident, citing years of dedicated community service and professional integrity.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle French exemplaire (“exemplary; a copy, facsimile; an example; a sample, specimen”), from Latin exemplāris (“exemplary; a copy, facsimile”), from exemplum (“an example; a sample; a copy or transcript”). By surface analysis, example + -ary. Doublet of exemplar. First use as a noun appears c. 1425, as an adjective, c. 1507.

Usage

Typically used attributively before a noun; often follows linking verbs like 'be' or 'remain'.

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