Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Open to objection or criticism; likely to cause offense or disapproval: Describes something that is considered unacceptable, offensive, or worthy of being challenged or argued against.

Usage

The word "exceptionable" is a formal adjective used to describe actions, statements, behaviors, or qualities that are likely to be found objectionable or offensive. It implies that reasonable people could or should take exception to (i.e., object to) the thing described. It is often used in contexts involving ethics, manners, or public discourse.

Examples

• The committee found the language in the report to be highly exceptionable and demanded its removal.
• While his plan had merit, its implementation strategy contained several exceptionable elements.
• The film was criticized for its exceptionable portrayal of historical events.

Advanced Usage

• "exceptionable conduct": Behavior that is considered improper or offensive.
  • The lawyer argued that the witness's exceptionable conduct should not influence the jury.
• "nothing exceptionable": A phrase used to state that nothing is objectionable.
  • Upon review, the inspector found nothing exceptionable in the facility's safety procedures.

Variants and Related Words

• Exception (n): An instance or case that does not conform to a general rule. (Note: This is the root noun but has a different primary meaning related to exclusions.)
• Unexceptionable (adj): Not open to objection or criticism; entirely acceptable.
  • Her professional record was unexceptionable.

Synonyms

• Objectionable: Arousing disapproval or protest; offensive.
• Offensive: Causing someone to feel resentful, upset, or annoyed.
• Reprehensible: Deserving censure or condemnation.
• Questionable: Doubtful as regards truth or quality.

Antonyms

• Unexceptionable: Beyond criticism or objection.
• Acceptable: Able to be agreed on; suitable.
• Inoffensive: Not objectionable or harmful.

Notes on Usage

• "Exceptionable" vs. "Exceptional": These words are often confused. "Exceptionable" means "objectionable," while "exceptional" means "unusually good; outstanding." They are not synonyms.
  • Incorrect: She gave an exceptionable performance. (This would incorrectly mean an objectionable performance.)
  • Correct: She gave an exceptional performance. (This means an outstanding performance.)
• The word is formal and less common in everyday speech than its synonym "objectionable."

Adjective

1. liable to objection or debate; used of something one might take exception to
   • a thoroughly unpleasant highly exceptionable piece of writing
   • found the politician's views objectionable