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superior
/suːˈpɪəriər/
higher in rank, quality, or importance
The superior officer gave clear instructions to the team.
The higher-ranking officer provided directions to the group.
general
Higher in rank, status, or quality than others
She was promoted to a superior position in the company.
She was given a higher-ranking job in the company.
Often used to describe people, products, or ideas that are better or more important than others.
general
Better or more advanced in skill or ability
His superior knowledge of the subject impressed the audience.
His advanced understanding of the topic impressed the audience.
Can be used to describe expertise or proficiency in a particular area.
Collocations
superior officera person of higher rank in the military or policesuperior qualityhigher quality or excellencesuperior skillsbetter or more advanced abilities
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage in Formal Contexts
Use 'superior' to describe rank, quality, or ability in professional or formal settings.
Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
While 'superior' can be a useful adjective, avoid overusing it to describe people or things, as it can come across as arrogant or dismissive.
Word Origin
From Latin 'superior,' meaning 'higher, above,' from 'superus,' meaning 'above.'
Usage Notes
Often used in formal or professional contexts to describe rank, quality, or ability. Can also be used to describe physical position, such as a superior location.
Word Breakdown
super
above, over
prefixior
relating to
suffixEnglish Dictionary