Exemplarily vs. Exemplary — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 20, 2024
Exemplarily describes doing something in a way that serves as a model, while exemplary refers to being an ideal or model in itself.
Difference Between Exemplarily and Exemplary
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Exemplarily is an adverb, used to describe the manner in which an action is performed with the aim of being a model for others. Whereas, exemplary is an adjective describing something so noteworthy that it serves as a model.
Exemplarily applies to actions, indicating that the actions are done in a way that is worthy of imitation. On the other hand, exemplary describes the nature or quality of an object or person, suggesting they are a benchmark for excellence.
When you act exemplarily, you are executing tasks or behaviors in an ideal way, encouraging others to follow. Conversely, being exemplary means possessing qualities that inherently set a high standard.
Use of exemplarily often comes in contexts where process and practice are highlighted, implying a standard approach. Whereas exemplary is typically used in contexts evaluating character, quality, or achievements.
In practice, someone might be described as behaving exemplarily in handling a difficult situation, stressing the manner of behavior. On the other hand, an exemplary employee inherently exhibits traits or results that others might aspire to replicate.
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Comparison Chart
Part of Speech
Adverb
Adjective
Usage
Describes manner of action
Describes quality or nature
Example Context
Performing tasks, behaviors
Evaluating character, achievements
Implication
Action worthy of imitation
Inherent high standard
Example Sentence
"She handled the situation exemplarily."
"He is an exemplary leader."
Compare with Definitions
Exemplarily
Reflecting the best practices.
His approach to the project was handled exemplarily.
Exemplary
Ideal or perfect.
His leadership skills are exemplary.
Exemplarily
Serving as a desirable model.
She conducted the workshop exemplarily, setting a high bar for others.
Exemplary
Serving as a desirable example.
The teacher’s exemplary conduct is admired by both colleagues and students.
Exemplarily
Done in an ideal or perfect manner.
The team worked exemplarily under pressure.
Exemplary
Worthy of imitation; commendable.
Her exemplary performance earned her the employee of the month award.
Exemplarily
In a way that is worthy of emulation.
She resolved the conflict exemplarily, showing great diplomacy.
Exemplary
Representing the best of its kind.
The care at this hospital is exemplary.
Exemplarily
Perfectly or flawlessly.
The procedure was executed exemplarily, without a single error.
Exemplary
Punishment severe enough to act as a deterrent.
The judge imposed an exemplary sentence to deter similar crimes.
Exemplarily
Worthy of imitation; commendable
Exemplary behavior.
Exemplary
Worthy of imitation; commendable
Exemplary behavior.
Exemplarily
Serving as a model.
Exemplary
Serving as a model.
Exemplarily
Serving as an illustration; typical.
Exemplary
Serving as an illustration; typical.
Exemplarily
Serving as a warning; admonitory.
Exemplary
Serving as a warning; admonitory.
Exemplarily
In an exemplary manner; ideally, admirably.
Exemplary
Deserving honour, respect and admiration.
Exemplarily
In a manner fitted or designed to be an example for imitation or for warning; by way of example.
She is exemplarily loyal.
Some he punisheth exemplarily.
Exemplary
Of such high quality that it should serve as an example to be imitated; ideal, perfect.
Her behaviour was always exemplary.
Exemplary
Serving as a warning; monitory.
Exemplary justice, exemplary punishment, exemplary damages
Exemplary
Providing an example or illustration.
Exemplary
(obsolete) An example, or typical instance.
Exemplary
(obsolete) A copy of a book or a piece of writing.
Exemplary
Serving as a pattern; deserving to be proposed for imitation; commendable; as, an exemplary person; exemplary conduct.
[Bishops'] lives and doctrines ought to be exemplary.
Exemplary
Serving as a warning; monitory; as, exemplary justice, punishment, or damages.
Exemplary
Illustrating as the proof of a thing.
Exemplary
An exemplar; also, a copy of a book or writing.
Exemplary
Worthy of imitation;
Exemplary behavior
Model citizens
Exemplary
Being or serving as an illustration of a type;
The free discussion that is emblematic of democracy
An action exemplary of his conduct
Exemplary
Serving to warn;
Shook a monitory finger at him
An exemplary jail sentence
Common Curiosities
What is the difference between exemplarily and exemplary?
Exemplarily is an adverb describing the manner of action; exemplary is an adjective describing the quality of something.
Can a person be described as exemplarily?
No, a person's actions can be exemplarily, not the person themselves.
Can a product be described as exemplarily?
No, products cannot perform actions and thus cannot be described as exemplarily.
What makes an action exemplarily?
Actions that are performed perfectly or ideally, setting a standard for others, are considered exemplarily.
Is exemplarily a positive attribute?
Yes, exemplarily indicates a high standard in action and is always viewed positively.
Can exemplary refer to negative examples?
While typically positive, exemplary can also be used in a negative sense, particularly in legal contexts, to refer to severe punishments.
What does it mean when something is described as exemplary?
It means it is outstanding or serves as a perfect example in its category.
How does exemplary relate to professional conduct?
Exemplary is often used to describe conduct that is commendable and worth emulating in a professional setting.
Can exemplary be used to describe actions?
Typically, exemplary describes qualities or characteristics, not actions.
Is exemplarily used frequently in everyday language?
It is less common than exemplary and typically used in formal or educational contexts.
What types of qualities does exemplary cover?
Exemplary can cover a wide range of qualities from ethical behavior to professional competence.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
