Éminent

Éminent is a French adjective meaning prominent, distinguished, or highly regarded. It is used to describe people, works, or institutions that stand out because of achievement, authority, or reputation.

Etymology: The word comes from Latin eminens “standing out,” via Old French. It is a cognate of the English adjective eminent, though pronunciation and usage conventions differ between the two languages. The acute accent on é marks French pronunciation and distinguishes it from its English counterpart.

Usage: In standard French, éminent generally follows the noun: un homme éminent, une personnalité éminente. It is common in formal or scholarly writing to emphasize status or prestige and can apply to scientists, politicians, writers, or institutions noted for influence or achievement.

Nuance and synonyms: Éminent implies a high rank or influence rather than mere fame. It is closer in sense to “distinguished” or “illustrious” than to “notable” or “remarkable,” and it tends to carry a sense of official standing or respected authority.

English connection: The English word eminent derives from the same Latin root but is not used with accents in French. A well-known English term related to the root is “eminent domain,” a legal concept distinct from typical French usage.

Examples: Un homme éminent dans le domaine de la médecine. Une personnalité éminente de la scène académique.