exemplary tedium

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exemplary tedium" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or experience that is both outstanding and monotonous, often in a sarcastic or ironic context. Example: "The lecture was an exercise in exemplary tedium, with the professor droning on about the same topic for hours."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

One noted its "exemplary tedium".

The Guardian - Film

This week Le Figaro's Brigitte Baudin described The Possibility of an Island as "ridiculous" and "catastrophic", while Corriere della Serra's Maurizio Pollo wrote that it was "of a quite exemplary tedium".

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

"My enemy was tedium".

The New York Times

Now that's tedium.

The Guardian

But oh, the tedium.

The New York Times

Relentless tedium, for starters.

The New York Times

"Exemplary, exemplary!" he cried.

The New York Times

There's no tedium like the tedium of twenty.

The New Yorker

Instead, tedium resulted.

The New York Times - Arts

What they abhor is tedium.

The New York Times - Magazine

Instead, there's just tedium.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "exemplary tedium" to ironically describe situations that are exceptionally boring despite potentially high expectations or prestigious contexts. This usage often adds a layer of humor or criticism.

Common error

Avoid using "exemplary tedium" in contexts that require genuine praise or admiration. The phrase inherently carries a sense of irony or sarcasm, which could be misinterpreted if used inappropriately.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exemplary tedium" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "exemplary" modifies the noun "tedium". Ludwig AI identifies this as a descriptor, emphasizing the degree or quality of the tedium.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Exemplary tedium" is a phrase used to describe something that is outstandingly boring, often with an ironic or sarcastic tone. While grammatically correct, Ludwig identifies it as a rare expression, predominantly found in News & Media contexts. The phrase serves to highlight a disappointing or unexpected level of monotony. Alternatives such as "remarkable monotony" or "supreme tedium" can offer similar nuances. It's crucial to use the phrase intentionally to convey irony and avoid misapplication in contexts requiring genuine praise.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exemplary dullness

Direct synonym with slight emphasis on the model-like quality of the dullness.

remarkable monotony

Emphasizes the unusual or noteworthy aspect of the monotony.

outstanding boredom

Highlights the exceptional degree of boredom experienced.

supreme tedium

Implies the highest level of tedium.

perfect monotony

Suggests that the monotony is complete and without flaw (in a negative sense).

consummate boredom

Emphasizes the high degree or skill involved in the boredom, often ironically.

masterful dullness

Highlights the skill or expertise involved in creating something so dull.

peerless tedium

Suggests that the tedium is unmatched or unrivaled.

unrivaled monotony

Similar to peerless tedium, it emphasizes the lack of competition in terms of monotony.

exceptional dullness

Highlights the rare or unusual nature of the dullness.

FAQs

How can I use "exemplary tedium" in a sentence?

You can use "exemplary tedium" to describe something outstandingly boring. For example: "The conference call was an exercise in "exemplary tedium", lasting for hours without any meaningful progress".

What's a good substitute for "exemplary tedium"?

Alternatives include "remarkable monotony", "outstanding boredom", or "supreme tedium", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Consider also "exceptional dullness".

Is "exemplary tedium" a common phrase?

No, "exemplary tedium" is not a common phrase. It is used rarely, typically for effect to emphasize the unexpected combination of 'exemplary' and 'tedium'.

When is it appropriate to use "exemplary tedium"?

It's appropriate when you want to ironically highlight something that is surprisingly boring despite being expected to be engaging or impressive. It's often used to express disappointment or criticism with a touch of humor.