Extraordinary vs. Remarkable

Attribute	Extraordinary	Remarkable
Definition	Unusual, exceptional, beyond what is ordinary	Worthy of attention or notice, outstanding
Synonyms	Amazing, incredible, phenomenal	Noteworthy, impressive, notable
Usage	Often used to describe something that is beyond belief or expectation	Used to highlight something that stands out or is worthy of recognition
Impact	Creates a sense of awe or astonishment	Leaves a lasting impression or makes a strong impact

Definition

Extraordinary and remarkable are two adjectives that are often used interchangeably to describe something that is exceptional or outstanding. However, there are subtle differences in their meanings that set them apart.

Extraordinary

The word "extraordinary" is used to describe something that is beyond what is usual or ordinary. It implies that the object or person being described possesses qualities or characteristics that are rare or exceptional. For example, an extraordinary performance may be one that exceeds all expectations and leaves a lasting impression on the audience.

• Unusual or rare qualities
• Exceeds expectations
• Leaves a lasting impression

Remarkable

On the other hand, the term "remarkable" is used to describe something that is worthy of attention or notice. It suggests that the object or person being described stands out in some way, whether it be through their actions, achievements, or qualities. A remarkable achievement, for example, may be one that is particularly noteworthy or impressive.

• Worthy of attention
• Stands out in some way
• Noteworthy or impressive

Characteristics

When comparing the attributes of extraordinary and remarkable, it becomes clear that both terms are used to highlight exceptional qualities. However, the key difference lies in the emphasis placed on rarity versus attention-grabbing qualities.

Extraordinary things are often characterized by their uniqueness and rarity. They are not commonly seen or experienced, which adds to their appeal and impact. On the other hand, remarkable things are distinguished by their ability to capture attention and stand out from the crowd. They may not necessarily be rare, but they are noteworthy in some way.

Examples

To better understand the distinction between extraordinary and remarkable, let's consider some examples. An extraordinary natural phenomenon, such as a double rainbow, is rare and awe-inspiring. It is a sight that is not often seen and leaves a lasting impression on those who witness it.

On the other hand, a remarkable act of kindness, such as a stranger helping an elderly person cross the street, may not be rare, but it is worthy of attention and praise. It stands out in a world where such acts are not always common and serves as a reminder of the goodness in humanity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while extraordinary and remarkable are often used interchangeably, they have distinct meanings that highlight different aspects of exceptionalism. Extraordinary emphasizes rarity and uniqueness, while remarkable focuses on attention-grabbing qualities. Both terms are used to describe things that are exceptional in some way, but the nuances in their definitions set them apart.