Preeminent
hardPositive tonepree-EM-ih-nent
adjective
Definition
Surpassing all others; very distinguished in some way
Memory hook
PRE-EMINENT: standing out BEFORE all others - the tallest building on the skyline.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“She is the preeminent scholar in her field.”
“The company holds a preeminent position in the industry.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“She is the ______ scholar in her field.”
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preeminent
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Preeminent is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "supreme" or "paramount" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "inferior".
Related GRE Words
paramount
More important than anything else; supreme
paragon
a model of excellence or perfection
principal
First in order of importance; main; the head of a school
exemplary
Serving as a desirable model; representing the best of its kind
aberrant
Deviating from what is normal or expected
aberration
A departure from what is normal, usual, or expected
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