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Synonyms

exceptionally

American  
[ik-sep-shuh-nuh-lee] / ɪkˈsɛp ʃə nə li /

adverb

  1. in a way or to a degree that is unusual or extraordinary; extremely.

    The combination of an exceptionally high tide and a devastating storm surge has wreaked havoc on coastal communities.

    In the photo, a young woman sits on the floor of a small shanty in an exceptionally impoverished neighborhood.


Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of exceptionally

exceptional ( def. ) + -ly

Explanation

A walk in the park is nice, but it’s exceptionally nice on a beautiful spring day when the weather is perfect, flowers are blooming, and birds are singing. Think of the word exceptionally as a magic wand that upgrades adjectives from ordinary to extraordinary. For example, a good day could just be a pleasant day when nothing bad happens, but an exceptionally good day would be closer to having the best day of your life. While exceptionally usually carries a positive meaning, it can also be used to describe something that is particularly unusual, like an exceptionally large shrimp.

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Vocabulary lists containing exceptionally

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

However, the IFS warns that in such a volatile environment, its forecasts are exceptionally uncertain.

From BBC ● Oct. 11, 2026

By using atomic nuclei as exceptionally stable references, nuclear clocks could eventually allow scientists to measure time and other physical quantities with levels of accuracy that existing technologies cannot reach.

From Science Daily ● Oct. 11, 2026

It has been an exceptionally quiet Atlantic hurricane season, broadly consistent with a strong El Niño, said Barnett, referring to a climate pattern that can lead to warmer weather.

From MarketWatch ● Oct. 9, 2026

The Champagne region fared less well as growers had to harvest exceptionally early after the extreme heat sped sugar buildup -- and hence natural alcohol production.

From Barron's ● Oct. 7, 2026

“I’ve been reviewing portions of last year’s exam with him. As I told you, sir, he’s doing exceptionally well in all the subjects but math.”

From "Tiger Boy" by Mitali Perkins

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