Synonyms of exemplary

exemplary

adjective

ig-ˈzem-plə-rē 

1

as in classic

constituting, serving as, or worthy of being a pattern to be imitated

as a hospital volunteer you have given exemplary service to your community

Synonyms & Similar Words

• classic
• excellent
• superb
• exceptional
• perfect
• paradigmatic
• unique
• wonderful
• model
• definitive
• quintessential
• archetypal
• terrific
• great
• special
• imitable
• prime
• fine
• textbook
• ideal
• marvelous
• fantastic
• stellar
• flawless
• impeccable
• superlative
• splendid
• first-class
• first-rate
• superior
• fabulous
• sterling
• absolute
• top
• sensational
• unsurpassed
• nonpareil
• dandy
• par excellence
• choice
• top-notch
• nifty
• grand
• banner
• A1
• fancy
• high-grade
• capital
• swell
• wizard
• primo
• keen
• tip-top
• crackerjack
• bang-up
• groovy
• jim-dandy
• A-OK

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• poor
• unsatisfactory
• bad
• substandard
• inadequate
• atrocious
• typical
• ordinary
• vile
• normal
• wretched
• average
• inferior
• representative
• deficient
• disappointing
• low-grade
• execrable
• mediocre
• second-class
• failed
• second-rate

2

as in warning

serving as or offering a warning

armies have traditionally used public execution as an exemplary punishment for the crime of desertion

Synonyms & Similar Words

• warning
• punitive
• cautionary
• admonitory
• monitory
• admonishing
• premonitory
• didactic
• moralistic
• cautioning
• advisory
• moralizing
• punishing
• counseling

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of exemplary

The Elite 16 award is the SIAC’s highest academic achievement honor and is presented to student-athletes who demonstrate exemplary performance in athletics and the classroom. — ABC News, 23 Sep. 2026

The District Court of Harris County in Houston handed down the ruling in May 2026, awarding Jacobs a total of $50,105,000, including $40,105,000 in compensatory damages and an additional $10 million in exemplary damages. — Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 16 Sep. 2026

Often referred to as the Nobel Prize of the Arts, the Praemium Imperiale recognizes exemplary achievements by artists around the world working in painting, sculpture, architecture, music, and theater and film. — News Desk, Artforum, 8 Sep. 2026

All told, Trinity Valley must pay Skains just over $10 million intended to cover harm to her mental health and reputation, unpaid wages and benefits, and exemplary damages, according to the verdict. — Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 Sep. 2026

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