What Does it Mean to Be Exemplary?

To be exemplary most often means to be worthy of imitation.

Exemplary, an adjective that means "serving as an example," often has a positive connotation suggesting excellence. However, like the noun to which it is related, it can be used in neutral and negative ways with reference to models, illustrations or warnings.

Definition

The Merriam-Webster dictionary lists three meanings for the adjective exemplary. It can mean "deserving of imitation," as in "the soldier's conduct was exemplary." It may also mean illustrative, as in "the text is exemplary of ancient Greek literature." In a more negative sense, exemplary can mean a warning, as in an "exemplary punishment" that "makes an example" of someone.

History

According to the Online Etymology Dictionary, exemplary came into use during the late fourteenth century CE. It is descended from the French "exemplaire" and the Latin "exemplaris," which means "that serves as an example."

Considerations

Synonyms for exemplary include laudable and noteworthy. Noun forms include exemplariness and exemplarity, while the adverb form is exemplarily.

References

• Merriam-Webster Dictionary: Exemplary
• Dictionary.com: Exemplary
• Online Etymology Dictionary: Exemplary