ENGLISH
REFERENCE

phenomenal

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //fəˈnɑmənəɫ// UK //fɪnˈɒmɪnəl// phe·nom·e·nal Informal

adj. extremely impressive or surprising. You use this to describe something that is much better than usual.

adj. extraordinarily impressive or exceptional in quality; relating to a phenomenon or something perceptible by the senses. Often used as an intensifier to denote excellence.


SIMPLE

The young pianist gave a phenomenal performance last night.

CONTEXTUAL

The company's phenomenal growth over the last decade surprised even the most optimistic investors.

COMPLEX

While the scientific community initially doubted the findings, the phenomenal success of the clinical trials eventually silenced the critics and led to a global shift in treatment protocols.

Origin

From phenomenon + -al, after French phénoménal.

Usage

Typically used as a gradable adjective; frequently modified by intensifiers like 'truly' or 'absolutely'.

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