Synonyms of outstanding

outstanding

adjective

au̇t-ˈstan-diŋ 

1

as in unpaid

not yet paid

there are several outstanding bills left, but at least we paid the rest

Synonyms & Similar Words

• unpaid
• payable
• owed
• owing
• overdue
• due
• unsettled
• mature

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• cleared
• repaid
• liquidated
• settled
• paid (off or up)
• prepaid

2

as in distinguished

standing above others in rank, importance, or achievement

the award goes to the most outstanding student in science

Synonyms & Similar Words

• distinguished
• prestigious
• notable
• illustrious
• noteworthy
• famous
• superior
• eminent
• honored
• bright
• luminous
• renowned
• celebrated
• noble
• signal
• glorious
• star
• infamous
• redoubtable
• preeminent
• famed
• reputable
• notorious
• dominant
• astral
• exalted
• predominant
• paramount

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• minor
• insignificant
• unimportant
• average
• mediocre
• inferior
• obscure
• unsung
• uncelebrated

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective outstanding differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of outstanding are conspicuous, noticeable, prominent, remarkable, salient, and striking. While all these words mean "attracting notice or attention," outstanding applies to something that rises above and excels others of the same kind.

honored for her outstanding contributions to science

When could conspicuous be used to replace outstanding?

The synonyms conspicuous and outstanding are sometimes interchangeable, but conspicuous applies to something that is obvious and unavoidable to the sight or mind.

conspicuous bureaucratic waste

When might noticeable be a better fit than outstanding?

The meanings of noticeable and outstanding largely overlap; however, noticeable applies to something unlikely to escape observation.

a piano recital with no noticeable errors

Where would prominent be a reasonable alternative to outstanding?

The words prominent and outstanding can be used in similar contexts, but prominent applies to something commanding notice by standing out from its surroundings or background.

a doctor who occupies a prominent position in the town

When is it sensible to use remarkable instead of outstanding?

The words remarkable and outstanding are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, remarkable applies to something so extraordinary or exceptional as to invite comment.

a film of remarkable intelligence and wit

When can salient be used instead of outstanding?

While in some cases nearly identical to outstanding, salient applies to something of significance that merits the attention given it.

the salient points of the speech

When would striking be a good substitute for outstanding?

While the synonyms striking and outstanding are close in meaning, striking applies to something that impresses itself powerfully and deeply upon the observer's mind or vision.

the region's striking poverty

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of outstanding

In 2020, Crapo named him to a list of Spirit of Freedom recipients, an annual award the senator gives to individuals who have provided outstanding service to Idaho military veterans. —Kevin Fixler, Idaho Statesman, 7 Jan. 2026

In the second half, Ilia Gruev’s outstanding turnover and fizzed pass into Aaronson was perfect. —Chris Waugh, New York Times, 7 Jan. 2026

Before the judge took him off the case, Jackson told the judge there were 10 outstanding subpoenas in the defense’s investigation. —Andrew Dalton, Chicago Tribune, 7 Jan. 2026

The company suddenly went dark, not responding to some 60,000 customers with outstanding car loans. —Samuel O'Neal, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 7 Jan. 2026