# exemplary

/ɪɡˈzɛmpɫɝi/ (US) · /ɛɡzˈɛmpləɹi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/exemplary
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. perfect model

adjective · CEFR C1 · Formal

of such high quality that it should be an example for others to follow.

For teachers: serving as a desirable model; representing the best of its kind. Often used to describe behavior, service, or character.

- The student was praised for her exemplary behavior during the school trip.
- The company’s commitment to environmental sustainability has been exemplary, setting a new standard for the entire manufacturing industry.

Usage: Usually precedes the noun it modifies.

### 2. serving as a warning

adjective · CEFR C2 · Formal · Technical

used to describe a punishment that is intended to warn other people not to do the same thing.

For teachers: serving as a warning or deterrent. Frequently occurs in the legal collocation 'exemplary damages'.

- The judge handed down an exemplary sentence to discourage others from committing the same crime.
- The court awarded exemplary damages to the plaintiff, intending to punish the defendant's egregious conduct and deter similar corporate negligence.

Usage: Commonly used in legal and judicial contexts.

## Examples

- The student received an award for her exemplary behavior.
- The company's exemplary safety record has made it a leader in the manufacturing industry.
- The judge noted that the defendant had led an exemplary life prior to this incident, citing years of dedicated community service and professional integrity.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.