absolutely first-rate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "absolutely first-rate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something of the highest quality or excellence. Example: "The restaurant received rave reviews for its absolutely first-rate service and cuisine."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Their war movie "Black Hawk Down" (opening December 28th) is absolutely first-rate.

The New Yorker

I smiled all the way through the Gateway Playhouse's sweet, naughty, hilarious, absolutely first-rate production of "Avenue Q".

The New York Times

"Not all that many writers, over a 50-year career, can still be turning out absolutely first-rate writing," said Trewin.

The Guardian - Books

"Richard J. Samuels has written an absolutely first-rate analysis of Japan's effort to grapple with adjustments in three policy areas national security, energy, and local governance in the wake of the Great Tohoku earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear disaster.

Cornell University

"One of the finest compliments that everybody gives to the Kingdom Life Church is once they buy them and renovate them, they are first-rate, absolutely first-rate," he said.

The New York Times

Arturo O'Farrill is the musical director and pianist; the absolutely first-rate band includes people like the trombonists Michael Philip Mossman and Papo Vasquez, the saxophonists Pablo Calegero and Mario Rivera, the bassist Andy Gonzalez and the percussionist Milton Cardona.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Absolutely first rate.

Independent

"As well as being an absolutely first rate lawyer, you need a sort of cultural affinity.

The Guardian

Milosz was honoured too, but not until he became a Nobel laureate was he acknowledged absolutely first rate.

Stanford University

Mr. Lonquich was absolutely first rate: a pianist of great energy, with a sound sense of style and technique enough to manage young Beethoven's racing, rippling dipsy doodle.

The New York Times - Arts

But, he adds, "unless you are absolutely first rate, which so few of us are, then what I call the letter-carrier function of the teacher is wonderful.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing in formal or business contexts, use "absolutely first-rate" to convey professionalism and attention to detail.

Common error

Avoid using "absolutely first-rate" in casual conversation or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or pretentious. Consider using simpler alternatives like "great" or "fantastic".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "absolutely first-rate" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It serves to emphasize the superior quality or excellence of whatever it describes. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and usable English expression.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

17%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "absolutely first-rate" is a grammatically sound and widely accepted way to describe something of exceptional quality. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It's most frequently found in News & Media and Academia contexts, indicating a neutral to professional register. While alternatives like "top-notch" or "excellent" exist, "absolutely first-rate" adds emphasis. When using it, be mindful of the context, avoiding overuse in informal settings. To highlight this idea the best practice is to use "absolutely first-rate" to emphasize exceptional quality or performance, especially when a general term like "good" or "excellent" seems insufficient.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

top-notch

A more concise alternative, implying the highest quality.

outstanding

Focuses on exceeding expectations and standing out.

excellent

A general term for very high quality.

superb

Suggests an elevated level of quality and craftsmanship.

exceptional

Highlights rarity and uncommon excellence.

first-class

Similar in meaning, but implies a sense of luxury or premium service.

of the highest caliber

A more formal and emphatic way to express superior quality.

world-class

Indicates a level of quality recognized globally.

incomparable

Suggests that the subject is unique and without equal.

unrivaled

Emphasizes the absence of competition due to superior quality.

FAQs

What does "absolutely first-rate" mean?

The phrase "absolutely first-rate" means of the highest quality or standard; excellent.

How can I use "absolutely first-rate" in a sentence?

You can use "absolutely first-rate" to describe anything of exceptional quality, such as "The service at the hotel was "absolutely first-rate"" or "The chef prepared an "absolutely first-rate" meal".

What are some alternatives to "absolutely first-rate"?

Some alternatives include "top-notch", "outstanding", "excellent", and "superb". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "absolutely first-rate" formal or informal?

While understandable in most contexts, "absolutely first-rate" leans towards the formal side. Simpler terms might be preferred in casual settings.