Exemplary

mediumPositive tone

ig-ZEM-pluh-ree

adjective

Definition

Serving as a desirable model; representing the best of its kind

Memory hook

EXEMPL-ary: worthy of being an EXAMPLE to others - so good people should copy it.

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Word roots

exemplumexample, sample(Latin)

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Examples

Her exemplary conduct earned her a promotion.
The student's work was of exemplary quality.

Test yourself

Fill in the blank with the right word:

Her ______ conduct earned her a promotion.
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exemplary

Synonyms

outstandingcommendablelaudablemodel

Antonyms

deplorablesubstandardinferiorreprehensible

Categories

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GRE Tip

Exemplary is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "outstanding" or "commendable" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "deplorable".

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