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nounnounadjective

l’extraordinaire

extraordinary

Qui est très rare ou très remarquable, qui sort de l’ordinaire.

Definition & meaning

Extraordinaire is an adjective meaning:

  • Extraordinary, exceptional, or remarkable: unusually impressive or surprising.
  • Unusual or out of the ordinary: different from what normally happens, not necessarily in a positive way.
  • Special or extraordinary, in an official context: arranged or appointed for a particular purpose rather than as part of the regular routine.

Grammar & Word origin

The adjective has the same form in the masculine and feminine singular: extraordinaire. Its plural is extraordinaires. It normally follows the noun it describes.

It comes from Latin extraordinarius, formed from extra (“outside”) and ordinarius (“ordinary, according to the usual order”).

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms

  • exceptionnel — exceptional; emphasizes rarity or outstanding quality.
  • remarquable — remarkable; emphasizes that something deserves attention.
  • inhabituel — unusual; emphasizes departure from what is usual, without necessarily suggesting admiration.

Antonyms

  • ordinaire — ordinary or commonplace.
  • habituel — usual or customary.

Common phrases & collocations

  • une personne extraordinaire — an extraordinary person.
  • une histoire extraordinaire — an extraordinary or unusual story.
  • une réunion extraordinaire — a special meeting, held outside the regular schedule.
  • C’est extraordinaire ! — “That’s extraordinary!” or “That’s amazing!”

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Examples

Ce spectacle est extraordinaire.adjective

This show is extraordinary.

Cette aventure paraît extraordinaire.adjective

This adventure seems extraordinary.

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