remarkable

The word remarkable is a sophisticated yet accessible adjective that serves as a bridge between the ordinary and the extraordinary. At its most fundamental etymological level, it describes something that is literally 'worthy of being remarked upon' or noticed. When you encounter something remarkable, it stands out from the background of daily life like a bright star in a dark sky. It is not merely 'good' or 'interesting'; it is something that compels a person to stop, observe, and perhaps comment to others about what they have seen. This word is frequently employed in contexts ranging from academic achievements and scientific breakthroughs to personal character traits and natural phenomena. For example, a scientist might describe a remarkable discovery that changes our understanding of physics, while a friend might describe another's remarkable kindness during a difficult time. The term carries a sense of genuine wonder and intellectual appreciation. It is used when the speaker wants to convey that the subject has exceeded standard expectations or has broken a pattern of normalcy in a positive or striking way.

Semantic Range

The word spans from 'unusual' to 'extraordinary,' often implying a degree of excellence or uniqueness that is rare in its specific category.

In professional settings, 'remarkable' is a high-value word. It is used in performance reviews to describe employees who go above and beyond their duties, or in marketing to describe a product that offers features never seen before. It is more formal than 'amazing' but less intense than 'miraculous.' This balance makes it a favorite for journalists and biographers who wish to maintain a tone of objective admiration. When you use this word, you are signaling to your audience that the subject is not just part of the crowd. It suggests a level of distinction that requires a second look. Furthermore, the word is often used to describe resilience. We speak of a remarkable recovery from illness or a remarkable turnaround for a failing company. In these instances, the word highlights the contrast between the expected negative outcome and the actual positive result. It is this contrast—the gap between the expected and the achieved—that defines the essence of remarkability.

Visual Imagery

Think of a white canvas with a single, vibrant red dot. That dot is remarkable because it breaks the uniformity of the canvas.

Culturally, the concept of being remarkable is often tied to the 'Great Man' theory of history or the celebration of individual genius. However, modern usage has expanded to include collective efforts and natural wonders. We might speak of the remarkable coordination of a rescue team or the remarkable biodiversity of a rainforest. The word invites the listener to share in the speaker's observation. By saying 'Isn't it remarkable?', you are initiating a shared moment of appreciation. It is a word that builds connection through shared wonder. It is also important to note that while 'remarkable' is usually positive, it can occasionally be used in a neutral or slightly negative sense to describe something that is shockingly unusual, though this is less common. For example, 'It is remarkable how much money they wasted' uses the word to emphasize the scale of the error. However, in 95% of cases, you will find it used to celebrate something impressive or worthy of praise.

Frequency of Use

In the Corpus of Contemporary American English, 'remarkable' consistently ranks as a high-frequency adjective in academic and news sub-corpora.

Ultimately, 'remarkable' is a word of distinction. It asks us to look closer, to think deeper, and to recognize the value in things that deviate from the norm. Whether you are describing a sunset, a scientific paper, or a friend's courage, 'remarkable' provides a level of descriptive depth that few other words can match. It is a staple of the English language for anyone wishing to express high levels of interest or approval with elegance and precision. As you continue to learn English, mastering the use of 'remarkable' will allow you to describe the world with more nuance and impact, moving beyond simple adjectives into the realm of sophisticated expression.

Using the word remarkable effectively requires an understanding of its grammatical flexibility and its collocational strength. As an adjective, its primary role is to modify nouns, but it can appear in several different positions within a sentence. The most common placement is the attributive position, where it directly precedes the noun it describes. For example, 'a remarkable achievement' or 'a remarkable woman.' In this position, it sets the tone for the noun immediately, preparing the reader or listener for something special. Another common placement is the predicative position, following a linking verb like 'to be,' 'to seem,' or 'to look.' For instance, 'The view from the mountain top was truly remarkable.' This structure often places more emphasis on the adjective itself, making it the focal point of the statement.

Common Adverb Pairings

'Remarkable' is frequently intensified by adverbs such as 'truly,' 'quite,' 'most,' 'absolutely,' and 'singularly.' These add layers of emphasis to the degree of remarkability.

A very common and useful sentence pattern involves the dummy subject 'it' followed by 'is remarkable that...' This construction allows the speaker to introduce a whole clause or fact that they find striking. 'It is remarkable that the company survived the economic crash' is a much more sophisticated way of saying 'The company survived the crash, and that is surprising.' This pattern is particularly useful in academic writing and formal reporting where you want to highlight a specific finding or observation. Additionally, 'remarkable' can be used in comparative structures, although it is an absolute-leaning adjective. You might say something is 'more remarkable' than something else, but often 'remarkable' on its own is sufficient to convey a high degree of uniqueness. You should also consider the 'for' prepositional phrase: 'remarkable for [something].' For example, 'The city is remarkable for its clean streets and friendly people.' This helps specify exactly why the subject is worthy of notice.

Sentence Structure: The 'In' Phrase

You can use 'remarkable in its [noun]' to focus on a specific quality. Example: 'The book is remarkable in its depth of research.'

When describing people, 'remarkable' can modify their abilities, their character, or their physical appearance (though the latter is less common unless the appearance is truly unusual). 'She is a remarkable leader' implies she has qualities that set her apart from other leaders. In contrast, 'He has a remarkable memory' focuses on a specific cognitive ability. The word is also useful in negative constructions to show disappointment or lack of progress: 'There has been no remarkable change in the patient's condition.' Here, it means 'noticeable' or 'significant.' This versatility allows 'remarkable' to function in a variety of emotional and descriptive registers. Whether you are writing a formal essay, a business email, or a personal journal entry, the word provides a level of polish and precision. It suggests that the writer is observant and thoughtful, capable of distinguishing between the average and the exceptional. By practicing these different sentence patterns, you will find that 'remarkable' becomes a natural part of your descriptive toolkit, allowing you to express complex ideas with clarity and style.

Negative Usage

In negative sentences, it often means 'significant' or 'obvious.' Example: 'The difference between the two products is not remarkable.'

Finally, consider the rhythm of your sentences. 'Remarkable' is a four-syllable word with the stress on the second syllable (re-MARK-able). This gives it a pleasant, rolling sound that can add a lyrical quality to your prose. It works well at the end of a sentence for emphasis or in the middle of a complex description to provide a focal point. As you read more English literature and news, pay attention to how professional writers use this word to create emphasis and interest. You will notice that it is rarely used haphazardly; it is almost always reserved for things that truly deserve the 'mark' of attention. By integrating 'remarkable' into your own writing and speaking, you will be able to communicate your observations with greater sophistication and impact, ensuring that your audience understands exactly why you find something noteworthy.

The word remarkable is a staple of high-quality English communication, appearing frequently in environments where precision and descriptive power are valued. One of the most common places you will hear this word is in documentaries and educational programming. Narrators often use it to describe natural wonders, historical events, or scientific phenomena. For instance, a nature documentary might describe the 'remarkable migration of the monarch butterfly,' or a history program might discuss the 'remarkable engineering of the Roman aqueducts.' In these contexts, the word serves to heighten the viewer's sense of awe and to justify the program's focus on the subject. It signals that what is being shown is not just interesting, but truly exceptional in the grand scheme of things. Similarly, in news reporting and journalism, 'remarkable' is used to highlight stories that are out of the ordinary. A journalist might report on a 'remarkable rescue' or a 'remarkable political comeback,' using the word to emphasize the dramatic or unexpected nature of the event.

Academic Contexts

In university lectures and research papers, 'remarkable' is used to describe data or findings that deviate significantly from the norm or that support a new theory.

Another major arena for this word is professional and business environments. During meetings, presentations, or performance reviews, 'remarkable' is a professional way to give high praise. A manager might say, 'Your progress this quarter has been remarkable,' which carries more weight and professional respect than saying 'You did a great job.' It suggests that the employee's work has been so good that it stands out as a model for others. In marketing and advertising, the word is used to differentiate products from competitors. A company might claim their new software has 'remarkable speed' or 'remarkable ease of use.' Here, the word is intended to persuade the consumer that the product is a cut above the rest. You will also find 'remarkable' in literary and film reviews. Critics use it to describe performances, writing styles, or directorial choices that are particularly striking. A 'remarkable performance' by an actor is one that is likely to be remembered and perhaps win awards.

Public Speaking

Politicians and motivational speakers use 'remarkable' to inspire their audience, often referring to the 'remarkable spirit' of a nation or the 'remarkable potential' of individuals.

In everyday conversation, 'remarkable' is used by people who want to express genuine surprise or admiration without sounding overly emotional or informal. It is a word that suggests the speaker is making a considered judgment. For example, if a friend tells you they learned to play the violin in just three months, you might respond, 'That's remarkable!' This shows you are impressed by the specific nature of their achievement. It is also common in travel writing and conversations about travel. People often describe 'remarkable landscapes' or 'remarkable architecture' they encountered on their journeys. In these cases, the word helps convey the sense of discovery and the lasting impression the place made on them. By paying attention to these various contexts, you will see that 'remarkable' is a versatile tool that helps speakers and writers highlight the exceptional aspects of the world around them. It is a word that invites us to pay attention and to value the extraordinary wherever we find it.

Social Media & Blogs

Influencers and bloggers use 'remarkable' to add a touch of sophistication to their reviews of experiences, products, or books.

Ultimately, hearing the word 'remarkable' is a signal that something of significance is being discussed. It is a word that demands a certain level of respect and attention. Whether it is used to describe a person's character, a scientific breakthrough, or a beautiful sunset, it always points toward something that stands out from the ordinary. By learning to recognize the word in these different settings, you will not only improve your listening comprehension but also gain a deeper understanding of how English speakers categorize and celebrate excellence and uniqueness in their world.

While remarkable is a versatile and powerful word, there are several common pitfalls that learners and even native speakers can fall into. The first and most frequent mistake is overuse. Because 'remarkable' is such a strong word, using it to describe every minor positive thing can dilute its impact. If you call a simple cup of coffee 'remarkable,' you leave yourself with no stronger word to describe a life-changing event or a world-class work of art. It is best reserved for things that truly stand out. Another common error is confusing 'remarkable' with 'noticeable.' While all remarkable things are noticeable, not all noticeable things are remarkable. For example, a stain on a shirt is noticeable, but it is rarely remarkable unless it is in the shape of a famous world leader. 'Remarkable' implies a degree of quality or extraordinariness that 'noticeable' does not.

Grammatical Misstep: Intensifiers

Avoid using 'very' with 'remarkable.' Since 'remarkable' already implies a high degree of something, 'very' sounds redundant. Use 'truly,' 'quite,' or 'absolutely' instead.

A third mistake involves incorrect preposition usage. Learners often struggle with which preposition to use after 'remarkable.' The most common and correct preposition is 'for.' You are 'remarkable for' a quality or achievement. Using 'about' or 'with' is usually incorrect in this context. For example, 'She is remarkable for her patience,' not 'She is remarkable with her patience.' Another subtle mistake is using 'remarkable' to describe something purely negative without the proper context. While you can say 'The lack of progress was remarkable,' using it to mean 'bad' in a general sense (e.g., 'The food was remarkable' to mean it tasted terrible) is confusing and usually incorrect. In such cases, 'shocking' or 'appalling' would be better choices. 'Remarkable' almost always carries a connotation of 'worth noting because it is impressive,' even if the thing itself isn't strictly 'good.'

Confusing with 'Notable'

'Notable' often refers to fame or importance, while 'remarkable' refers to the quality of being unusual or striking. A person can be notable without being remarkable, and vice versa.

Finally, be careful with the adverbial form, 'remarkably.' It is often used as a sentence modifier (e.g., 'Remarkably, he survived the crash'), but learners sometimes place it incorrectly in the sentence. It should usually come at the beginning of the sentence or directly before the adjective it modifies (e.g., 'a remarkably talented artist'). Placing it elsewhere can make the sentence feel clunky or unclear. Also, ensure that the thing you are calling 'remarkable' is actually a noun or a situation. You cannot 'remarkably do' something in the same way you 'quickly do' something; 'remarkably' modifies the *quality* of the action or the *fact* of the action, not the manner of the action itself. By avoiding these common errors, you will be able to use 'remarkable' with the precision and authority of a native speaker, enhancing the overall quality of your English communication.

Spelling Note

Don't forget the 'e' after the 'k'. It is 'remarkable,' not 'remarkabel' or 'remarkible.'

In summary, 'remarkable' is a word that demands careful handling. It is a precision instrument for highlighting excellence and uniqueness. By being mindful of its strength, its grammatical requirements, and its subtle differences from similar words, you can use it to create truly 'remarkable' English prose and conversation. Remember that language is not just about being understood, but about expressing yourself with clarity, nuance, and style. Avoiding these common mistakes is a significant step toward achieving that goal.

To truly master the word remarkable, it is essential to understand its relationship with other similar adjectives. English is rich with words that describe the extraordinary, and choosing the right one can significantly change the tone and precision of your message. One of the closest synonyms is extraordinary. While often interchangeable, 'extraordinary' is slightly more formal and literally means 'beyond the ordinary.' It is often used for events or circumstances. Exceptional is another close relative, but it carries a stronger connotation of 'being the exception to the rule' and is frequently used to describe high levels of ability or quality, such as an 'exceptional student.' Noteworthy and notable are more literal, meaning 'worthy of note,' and are often used in academic or professional contexts to point out specific details that deserve attention.

Remarkable vs. Extraordinary

'Remarkable' focuses on the fact that something draws attention; 'extraordinary' focuses on the fact that it is outside the norm.

For more intense situations, you might use phenomenal or outstanding. 'Phenomenal' suggests something so impressive it seems like a natural phenomenon, while 'outstanding' literally means 'standing out' from a group, often used in performance evaluations. On the more informal side, words like amazing, incredible, or wonderful are common, but they lack the specific 'worthy of remark' nuance that 'remarkable' provides. They are more about the speaker's emotional reaction than the objective quality of the subject. If you want to describe something that is unique and one-of-a-kind, singular is a sophisticated choice. For example, 'She has a singular talent for sculpture.' This implies that her talent is not just remarkable, but unlike anyone else's.

Remarkable vs. Impressive

'Impressive' focuses on the effect something has on the observer (it leaves an impression); 'remarkable' focuses on the quality of the thing itself.

In some cases, you might want to use a more specific adjective. Instead of 'a remarkable discovery,' you could say 'a groundbreaking discovery' if it opens up new areas of study. Instead of 'a remarkable person,' you might say 'a distinguished person' if they are well-known and respected in their field. Understanding these nuances allows you to be more descriptive and avoid repetitive language. It also helps you understand the subtle differences in meaning when you read or hear these words. For instance, if a critic calls a movie 'remarkable,' they are saying it is worth seeing and discussing. If they call it 'exceptional,' they are saying it is one of the best in its genre. If they call it 'noteworthy,' they might just mean it has some interesting elements despite being otherwise average. These distinctions are the key to advanced English proficiency.

Comparison Table

• Remarkable: Worthy of notice/comment.
• Extraordinary: Beyond the usual/normal.
• Exceptional: Much better than average.
• Noteworthy: Important enough to be mentioned.

By exploring these alternatives, you gain a deeper appreciation for the specific 'flavor' of the word 'remarkable.' It is a word that balances objectivity and admiration, making it a versatile and essential part of the English language. Whether you are describing a person, an event, or an idea, having a range of similar words at your disposal will help you communicate with greater clarity and impact. As you continue to build your vocabulary, remember that the goal is not just to know many words, but to know how to use the *right* word for the right situation. 'Remarkable' is often that right word, but knowing its neighbors will make you a much more effective communicator.