extraordinaire
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Extraordinary in a particular capacity or skill: Used postpositively (after the noun it modifies) to describe someone or something as exceptionally remarkable, outstanding, or superior in a specific field or quality.
Usage
- The adjective extraordinaire is almost always used after the noun it describes. It is a borrowing from French, and this postpositive placement is characteristic of its usage in English.
- It is typically used in a complimentary or hyperbolic way to emphasize exceptional talent or quality.
Examples
- Adjective:
- She is a chef extraordinaire, known for her innovative fusion cuisine.
- The event was organized by a planner extraordinaire who thought of every detail.
- He proved himself a troubleshooter extraordinaire during the system crisis.
Advanced Usage
- Stylistic Use: The word often carries a slightly formal or sophisticated tone. It can sometimes be used humorously or ironically.
- After fixing the leak with duct tape and a paperclip, my brother, the handyman extraordinaire, took a bow.
Variants and Related Words
- Extraordinary (adj): Very unusual or remarkable. This is the standard adjective and is used a noun (e.g., an talent).
- Par excellence (adv): A similar French borrowing meaning "being the best of its kind." It is also used postpositively (e.g., a scholar ).
Synonyms
- Exceptional
- Outstanding
- Preeminent
- Peerless (in a specific field)
Antonyms
- Ordinary
- Average
- Mediocre
Notes
- "Extraordinaire" vs. "Extraordinary": While both mean "remarkable," their grammatical placement differs. "Extraordinary" is a standard pre-noun adjective (). "Extraordinaire" is a postpositive adjective (), adding a stylistic flair.
- This word is not typically used in casual, everyday conversation but is common in written descriptions, journalism, and formal praise.
Adjective
- extraordinary in a particular capacity
- a woodworker extraordinaire
- a self-starter extraordinaire