excellency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "excellency" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used as a title of respect for high-ranking officials, such as ambassadors or governors. Example: "Your Excellency, it is an honor to meet you at this diplomatic event."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His Excellency and his excellent wife were polite and devoid of any human vigor.

The New Yorker

"The food is excellent," I said, stifling the impulse to append "Your Excellency" to the assessment.

The New Yorker

Here is his statement: I have written to Kevin Rudd indicating that I will provide him confidence in the House of Representatives in the event that her Excellency the Governor-General commissions him as Prime Minister.

The Guardian

Dictatorial allcomers must bow before Ugandan president Idi Amin, who styled himself His Excellency, President for Life [sic], Field Marshal Al Hadji Doctor Idi Amin Dada, VC, DSO, MC, Lord of All the Beasts of the Earth and Fishes of the Seas, and Conqueror of the British Empire in Africa in General and Uganda in Particular.

The Guardian - Opinion

So the rules soon changed to first names all round, though ambassadors, at least in public, may be called "Your Excellency" by other diplomats and "Sir" or, particularly if female, "Ambassador" by their own staff.This shift, the biggest in the English politeness code since "thee" and "thou" fell into disuse, has accelerated.

The Economist

He does not mourn the demise of that world: liberated from court etiquette, he says, he can call someone an "idiot" if he wants, instead of "your excellency".

The Economist

Mr Odinga called Mr Kibaki "your excellency".

The Economist

In 1929 Fermi, as Italy's first professor of theoretical physics and a rising star in European science, was named by Italian Prime Minister Benito Mussolini to his new Accademia d'Italia, a position that included a substantial salary (much larger than that for any ordinary university position), a uniform, and a title ("Excellency").

Encyclopedia Britannica

Worship includes expressions of praise, acknowledgments of the excellency of the divine, communion in the form of prayer, and the use of sacraments or visible objects that signify or represent the invisible sacred beyond them, feelings of joy and of peace expressed often in musical form, and sacrifice or the offering of gifts to the divine or in the name of the divine.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Your Excellency was a witness to the growing resistance found by our team in important sectors of the government and society," she wrote.

Independent

"We ask, your excellency, to not give Israel the honour to host the next Uefa Under-21 Championship," PFF President Jibril Rajoub said.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When addressing someone as "Your Excellency", ensure you are aware of the specific protocols and contexts where this title is appropriate, as its misuse can be considered disrespectful.

Common error

Avoid using "Your Excellency" in informal settings or when addressing individuals who do not hold a position that warrants this title. Always verify the correct form of address for dignitaries to maintain proper etiquette.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "excellency" is that of a noun, used either to denote the quality of being excellent or, more commonly, as a title of honor. Ludwig shows that it functions as a formal address.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Encyclopedias

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "excellency" functions primarily as a noun denoting a title of respect or the quality of being excellent. As Ludwig AI explains, it is grammatically correct and most commonly used in formal contexts such as news, encyclopedias, and business communications. When using "excellency", it's crucial to be mindful of the context and ensure it aligns with the appropriate level of formality. Common authoritative sources include The New Yorker, The Economist, and The New York Times. Alternatives like "Your Grace" or "Your Honor" can be used depending on the individual's position, but always prioritize verifying the correct form of address. Remember, misuse can be perceived as disrespectful. When you're writing remember to be mindful of all that.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Your Grace

A formal title of address, typically for a high-ranking member of the clergy or nobility; suggests deference and respect.

Your Honor

A title of address for judges and magistrates; implies respect for the person's position and authority.

Highness

A title of nobility or royalty, indicating a high rank or status.

Eminence

A title given to cardinals in the Roman Catholic Church, denoting their high status and importance.

Distinguished

Describes someone who is well-known and respected for their achievements or qualities.

Illustrious

Describes someone who is famous and admired for their achievements.

Preeminence

The state of being superior to others; often refers to a position of leadership or authority.

Supremacy

The state of being the highest in authority or power.

Exalted

Describes someone or something that is held in high regard or esteem.

Remarkable

Describes something that is worthy of attention or admiration due to its unusual or outstanding qualities.

FAQs

How do you use "excellency" in a sentence?

"Excellency" is typically used as a title of address for high-ranking officials. For example, "Your Excellency, it is an honor to meet you." It can also refer to the quality of being excellent.

What are some alternatives to "Your Excellency"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "Your Honor" (for judges), "Your Grace" (for certain clergy), or simply "Sir" or "Madam".

Is it correct to refer to a female ambassador as "His Excellency"?

No, it is not correct. The appropriate title for a female ambassador is "Her Excellency".

When is it appropriate to use the term "excellency"?

It is appropriate to use "excellency" when formally addressing or referring to individuals holding high-ranking positions, such as ambassadors, governors, or certain religious leaders. Always confirm the proper title for the individual being addressed.