remarkable

Remarkable is an English adjective used to describe something that stands out and prompts remark because it is unusual, extraordinary, or noteworthy. It can apply to people, events, discoveries, or objects, and it often conveys a positive sense of distinction. The degree of astonishment implied by remarkable can vary with context; in formal writing, it is typically reserved for findings or phenomena that are clearly notable beyond the ordinary.

Etymology: The word comes from Old French remarquable, from remarquer “to remark” or “to note again,” with the suffix -able forming an adjective. The sense developed in English to mean “worthy of remark” and then “extraordinary” or “notable.”

Usage and nuance: Remarkable is versatile but can reflect the speaker’s or writer’s judgment about what merits attention. It is commonly used for achievements, talents, or events; it is less common for routine occurrences. Synonyms include notable, exceptional, extraordinary, and striking. The opposite is unremarkable.

Variants and related terms: The adverb is remarkably, and the noun form is remarkableness. In some contexts, especially investigative or scientific writing, more precise terms such as significant or notable may be preferred, whereas remarkable often appears in evaluative or promotional language. Related concepts include notions of rarity, distinction, and prominence.