seem exceptional

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seem exceptional" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing something that appears to be outstanding or remarkable in some way. Example: "The results of the experiment seem exceptional, indicating a breakthrough in our research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Why should it seem exceptional, or an exception to the rule?

Vice

When Fenway Park opened in 1912, it didn't seem exceptional.

The New York Times - Books

In a country where some 17,000 people a year are murdered, this would not seem exceptional.

The Economist

Dr. Amar V. Munsiff of North General Hospital in East Harlem said the written consent rule made H.I.V. seem exceptional.

The New York Times

In this context, Haditha is made to seem exceptional, and is always diminished by the obligatory, nauseating ministerial comment that things were worse under Saddam.

The Guardian - Opinion

Things in "L'Écume" that seem exceptional to us, or to a bunch of idealistic students rallying, in 1968, behind the Vianesque slogan "Sous les pavés, la plage!" ("Under the cobblestones, the beach!"), may not have been so exceptional after all.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

These seemed "exceptional circumstances".

The Guardian - Opinion

Another contemporary remembers that "Emma always seemed exceptional.

The Guardian - Film

The worse Fox behaved, the more Kelly seemed exceptional.

The New Yorker

At this juncture, chemical differences seemed exceptional and erratic and remained uncorrelated with other stellar properties.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Relotius case seems exceptional in its excesses, and deeply pathological.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "seem exceptional", ensure that the context clearly indicates what standard or norm the subject is deviating from. This provides a clearer understanding of why it's considered exceptional.

Common error

Avoid using "seem exceptional" when describing purely subjective preferences or opinions. This phrase implies an objective standard, so it's better suited for situations where there's a measurable or widely accepted basis for comparison.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seem exceptional" functions as a descriptor, indicating that something gives the impression of being beyond the ordinary or expected. It combines a linking verb with an adjective, modifying a noun or pronoun. Ludwig confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "seem exceptional" is a descriptor used to express that something gives the impression of being beyond the ordinary. Ludwig's analysis indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and primarily functions to convey an observation or judgement. It is found in a range of contexts, notably News & Media and Scientific domains, suggesting a neutral to formal register. To enhance your writing, use "seem exceptional" when you want to suggest that something stands out based on objective standards. Consider using alternatives like "appear remarkable" or "be outstanding" to fine-tune your message. Avoid using "seem exceptional" in subjective contexts, where personal preferences may not be objectively supported.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be outstanding

Focuses on the superior quality and performance of something.

appear remarkable

Emphasizes the striking or impressive nature of something, suggesting it stands out positively.

look extraordinary

Highlights the unusual and often impressive visual aspect.

come across as special

Indicates the impression that something is particularly valued or significant.

strike as unusual

Indicates an initial impression of something being different from the norm.

prove uncommon

Emphasizes that something is not frequently encountered or observed.

present as atypical

Highlights the deviation from a standard or norm.

feel singular

Suggests a unique or distinct quality that sets something apart.

stand out

A more general term indicating that something is noticeable or prominent.

shine

Implies excellence and superiority, often in comparison to others.

FAQs

How can I use "seem exceptional" in a sentence?

You can use "seem exceptional" to describe something that appears to be beyond the ordinary or expected. For example, "Her performance skills "seem exceptional" compared to others in her age group."

What are some alternatives to "seem exceptional"?

Some alternatives include "appear remarkable", "look extraordinary", or "be outstanding", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "seem exceptional"?

It's appropriate when you want to express that something gives the impression of being markedly different or superior based on some criteria or standard. Ensure that it's not solely based on personal preferences.

What's the difference between "seem exceptional" and "is exceptional"?

"Seem exceptional" indicates an appearance or impression of being exceptional, while "is exceptional" states it as a fact. The former suggests observation and interpretation, while the latter asserts a definitive quality.