WordGarden.iounsurpassed
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ʌnsəpˈɑːst/
US
- /ˌənsərˈpæst/
Meanings
Adjective
better than anything else of its kind
Beyond the definition
If something is unsurpassed, it is so good that nothing is better. Think of a legendary athlete whose records remain unbroken for decades, or a breathtaking view that no other landscape can match. It points to the highest level of quality, skill, or excellence. You might say a chef's souffle is unsurpassed if it is the fluffiest, most delicious one you have ever tasted. Or perhaps an artist's creativity is unsurpassed, meaning very few people could match it. The word suggests something truly exceptional and very hard to beat.
The word unsurpassed describes something that has not been bettered and is at the very highest level of its kind. It is a strong adjective that points to outstanding quality, skill, or achievement. Unlike simply being "good" or even "excellent," unsurpassed suggests that no person or thing has done better.
You might read about an unsurpassed level of dedication from a humanitarian worker who tirelessly helps those in need. Or you could describe the beauty of a natural wonder as unsurpassed, meaning its magnificence is unmatched anywhere else on Earth. It is often used to celebrate lasting accomplishments or qualities that have stood the test of time.
The word carries a sense of admiration and high praise. An unsurpassed achievement seems to have reached a peak that others have not gone beyond. Think of Shakespeare as an unsurpassed playwright, or Marie Curie as an unsurpassed scientist. Their contributions continue to inspire people and set a very high bar for those who follow.
So when you use unsurpassed, you are pointing to something truly exceptional: a peak performance, a remarkable creation, or an enduring legacy that still seems impossible to outdo.
Examples
- 1
Travel praise
The hotel offers unsurpassed views of the coast.
- Usage
unsurpassed is fairly formal and often used in strong praise
- 2
Work quality
Her attention to detail is unsurpassed.
- 3
Sports record
Even after a decade, the athlete's record remains unsurpassed.
- Phraseremains unsurpassed
still has not been beaten
- 4
Research expertise
In the field of cancer research, her expertise is unsurpassed.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- peerless
- incomparable
- best in class
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- unsurpassed quality
- unsurpassed beauty
- unsurpassed in
- unsurpassed by
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- unsurpassedadjective