there is nothing exceptional

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "there is nothing exceptional" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that something is ordinary or unremarkable, often in a context where you are evaluating or comparing things. Example: "After reviewing the report, I concluded that there is nothing exceptional about the findings; they align with our previous data."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

There is nothing exceptional in the cart's design, Dr. Wendroff is quick to point out.

The New York Times

There is nothing "exceptional" about the strategy outlined for John McCain in "McCain Exceptionalism," by William Kristol (column, May 19).

The New York Times

Though there is nothing exceptional about the plot or direction, Road to Morocco provides the venue for a host of snappy one-liners from one of Hollywood's most legendary comedy teams.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But when it comes to retirement, health, disability, and unemployment benefits there is nothing exceptional about the United States: it is average among industrialized countries — more generous than Australia, Canada, Ireland, and Italy, just behind Finland and the United Kingdom, and on a par with the Netherlands and Denmark.

The New Yorker

"While the sacrifices being made in this process — by workers, retirees, creditors, dealers, suppliers, communities and individuals injured by G.M. products — are painful, there is nothing exceptional about these bankruptcy terms," said an administration official, who requested anonymity amid continuing talks.

The New York Times

Enter a set of labs at Imperial College in London and at first sight there is nothing exceptional: pale grey work surfaces, collections of bottles, racks of test-tubes.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

There was nothing exceptional about the attack on Dresden.

The New Yorker

"There's nothing exceptional or extraordinary about it.

The New York Times

(The Met said that there was nothing "exceptional" about the transportation costs).

The New Yorker

There's nothing exceptional or surprising that several thousand people would be arrested".

The Guardian

And yet, there was nothing exceptional about this performance, no moments that vanquished you, no revelations.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "there is nothing exceptional", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being evaluated or compared. This provides a clear understanding of why the subject is considered unremarkable.

Common error

Avoid using "there is nothing exceptional" when the context already implies ordinariness. For example, saying "There is nothing exceptional about breathing air" is redundant; instead, reserve the phrase for situations requiring comparative judgment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "there is nothing exceptional" functions as a declarative statement to express a lack of distinctiveness or outstanding qualities. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "there is nothing exceptional" serves to express that something is unremarkable or lacks distinguishing qualities. As Ludwig confirms, its grammatical structure is correct, and it's frequently employed in various contexts, particularly in News & Media. The phrase, although common, should be used thoughtfully to avoid stating the obvious. Consider alternatives such as "there is nothing remarkable" or "there is nothing noteworthy" to vary your language. Overall, understanding when and how to use this phrase effectively can enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

there is nothing remarkable

Replaces "exceptional" with "remarkable", suggesting something lacks noticeable qualities.

there is nothing noteworthy

Substitutes "exceptional" with "noteworthy", indicating a lack of significant interest.

there is nothing special

Uses "special" instead of "exceptional", implying a lack of uniqueness or distinction.

there is nothing out of the ordinary

Emphasizes the lack of deviation from the usual or expected.

there is nothing extraordinary

Replaces "exceptional" with "extraordinary", highlighting the absence of unusual qualities.

it's nothing to write home about

An idiomatic expression meaning something is not particularly exciting or impressive.

it's nothing to get excited about

Indicates a lack of reason to be enthusiastic or thrilled.

it's quite commonplace

Focuses on the commonness and lack of uniqueness of something.

it's run-of-the-mill

Suggests something is ordinary and lacks any distinguishing features.

it's fairly typical

Implies conformity to a standard or norm, without standing out.

FAQs

What does "there is nothing exceptional" mean?

The phrase "there is nothing exceptional" means that something is ordinary, unremarkable, or lacks notable qualities. It indicates that the subject being discussed does not stand out or possess any unique characteristics.

How can I use "there is nothing exceptional" in a sentence?

You can use "there is nothing exceptional" to describe a situation, object, or person that does not possess any remarkable or outstanding qualities. For example, "After reviewing the data, "there is nothing exceptional" about the results."

What are some alternatives to "there is nothing exceptional"?

Alternatives to "there is nothing exceptional" include "there is nothing remarkable", "there is nothing noteworthy", or "there is nothing special". The best alternative depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "there is nothing exceptional" or "there's nothing exceptional"?

Both "there is nothing exceptional" and "there's nothing exceptional" are grammatically correct. The choice depends on the desired level of formality; "there is" is more formal, while "there's" is a contraction suitable for informal contexts.