What is outstanding? Pronunciation and usage in English

outstanding means . Learn how to pronounce and use outstanding through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of outstanding

outstandingadjective

/aʊtˈstandɪŋ/
Definition & pronunciation of outstanding

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "outstanding." It's a tricky one for many English learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

The word is divided into two main syllables:

  • Out - pronounced like "out" as in "out the door"
  • Stand - pronounced like "stand" as in "stand up"

2. Pronunciation Breakdown:

  • "Out": Short "u" sound. Think of the "oo" in "foot."
  • "Stand": This is where it gets a bit tricky. It’s not like the standard pronunciation of “stand” (as in “I stand tall”). Instead, it’s similar to “stahnd.” The "a" is a short "a" sound, like in "cat." The "nd" is pronounced as a single sound.

3. Putting it together:

The whole word is pronounced: "out-stahnd"

4. Tips & Variations:

  • Stress: The primary stress is on the second syllable ("stahnd"). You'll want to emphasize that syllable slightly more than the first ("out").
  • Faster Speech: In natural conversation, it might flow together a little faster. Something like "out-stand-ing" is common.

Resources to Listen:

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • Where are you from? (This can help me suggest pronunciations that are closer to your native accent.)

Usage and examples with the word outstanding in English

Let's break down how to use the word "outstanding" effectively in English. It's a versatile word with several different meanings and uses. Here's a detailed look:

1. As an Adjective (Most Common Usage): Meaning Exceptional or Remarkable

This is the most frequent way people use "outstanding." It describes something that’s noticeably better than average, impressive, or remarkable.

  • Examples:
    • "She gave an outstanding performance in the play." (Excellent performance)
    • "He’s an outstanding scientist in his field." (Highly skilled and respected)
    • "The new restaurant has an outstanding reputation." (Very good reputation)
    • "The view from the mountaintop was absolutely outstanding." (Spectacular)
    • “The student received an outstanding grade on the exam.” (Very high grade)

2. As an Adjective (Meaning Noticeable or Obvious)

Sometimes "outstanding" simply means something is easily noticed or stands out.

  • Examples:
    • "There was an outstanding stain on the carpet." (Easily visible)
    • "He’s an outstanding figure in the community." (Someone who stands out due to their contributions)
    • “His red hair was outstanding in the crowd.” (Noticeable)

3. As a Verb (Meaning To Stand Out or Excel)

Less common, but still used. It means to be particularly successful or noticeable.

  • Examples:
    • "He’s outstanding in his field – he’s always leading the way." (He’s excelling and leading)
    • “The athlete outstanding in the competition.” (Excelled)

4. As a Noun (Meaning a Prize or Award)

It can refer to a special prize or award.

  • Examples:
    • "She received an outstanding achievement award." (A prestigious award)
    • "The company gave him an outstanding service award."

Key Considerations & Nuances:

  • Intensity: "Outstanding" is a strong word. Don’t use it for everything. Reserve it for things that truly deserve high praise. "Good" or "excellent" might be more appropriate for slightly less impressive things.

  • Context is crucial: The meaning of “outstanding” depends heavily on the context.

  • Synonyms: Consider using synonyms to vary your language: remarkable, exceptional, brilliant, superb, impressive, phenomenal, outstanding (as an adjective - but be aware that "outstanding" itself is very strong).

Here's a quick table to summarize:

Part of Speech Meaning Example
Adjective Exceptional, Remarkable "Her writing is outstanding."
Adjective Noticeable, Obvious "His voice was outstanding in the choir."
Verb To Stand Out, to Excel "He’s outstanding at playing the guitar."
Noun A Prize or Award "She received an outstanding scholarship."

Resources for Further Learning:

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  • What kind of writing are you working on? (e.g., academic essay, creative writing, business report)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you’re trying to improve?

Synonyms for the word outstanding

Practice with vocabulary outstanding

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The project manager's leadership was truly _________, guiding the team to exceed all expectations.
  2. The research paper presented an _________ analysis of the economic data, earning high praise from the reviewers.
  3. Despite several reminders, there is still an _________ balance on your account.
  4. Effective communication is _________ for successful collaboration in any professional setting.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. The CEO recognized her ______ contribution to the company's annual success. a) average b) exceptional c) outstanding d) mediocre e) unremarkable

  2. Which of the following terms can describe a payment that has not yet been made? a) due b) advanced c) outstanding d) settled e) pending

  3. His ______ analytical skills set him apart from his peers during the rigorous evaluation process. a) negligible b) superb c) prominent d) ordinary e) outstanding

  4. To ______ project milestones requires meticulous planning and consistent effort. a) accomplish b) impede c) fulfill d) neglect e) complete

  5. Choosing between an ______ and an ______ approach is crucial for optimizing resource allocation. a) elaborate b) effective c) efficient d) redundant e) excessive

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: The team's presentation was so impressive that it completely captivated the audience. Rewrite using "outstanding":

  2. Original: There are a few issues from the previous meeting that have not yet been addressed. Rewrite using "outstanding":

  3. Original: Her leadership has consistently demonstrated remarkable innovation and strategic foresight. Rewrite without using "outstanding", but a suitable replacement word:

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The project manager's leadership was truly outstanding, guiding the team to exceed all expectations.
  2. The research paper presented an exceptional analysis of the economic data, earning high praise from the reviewers.
  3. Despite several reminders, there is still an outstanding balance on your account.
  4. Effective communication is crucial for successful collaboration in any professional setting.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) exceptional, c) outstanding
  2. a) due, c) outstanding, e) pending
  3. b) superb, c) prominent, e) outstanding
  4. a) accomplish, c) fulfill, e) complete
  5. b) effective, c) efficient

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The team delivered an outstanding presentation that completely captivated the audience.
  2. There are a few outstanding issues from the previous meeting.
  3. Her leadership has consistently demonstrated exceptional innovation and strategic foresight.

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