Marvel vs. Marvellous — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 16, 2024
"Marvel" is a noun and verb referring to something astonishing or to be amazed by something, while "marvellous" is an adjective describing something as extremely good or wonderful.
Difference Between Marvel and Marvellous
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Marvel" is a term used both as a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to something that causes wonder or astonishment, such as a miraculous event or an impressive creation. "Marvellous," on the other hand, is an adjective used to describe something as exceptionally good or wonderful. It conveys a sense of admiration and delight.
While "marvel" can refer to both the act of being amazed and the object of amazement, "marvellous" specifically characterizes something as remarkably pleasing or excellent. The two words are related through their connection to wonder and admiration but differ in their grammatical use and nuance.
"Marvel" often implies an element of surprise or rarity, something that stands out significantly. "Marvellous" emphasizes the outstanding quality or enjoyment of something. Both words derive from the same root, highlighting their shared connotation of wonder and excellence.
In everyday language, "marvel" might be used more specifically to describe unique and extraordinary things or events, while "marvellous" is more broadly applied to praise something highly enjoyable or superb.
Comparison Chart
Part of Speech
Noun and verb
Adjective
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Meaning (Noun)
Something causing wonder or astonishment
Not applicable
Meaning (Verb)
To be filled with wonder or astonishment
Not applicable
Meaning (Adjective)
Not applicable
Extremely good or wonderful
Usage Example (Noun)
The pyramids are a marvel of architecture
Not applicable
Usage Example (Verb)
She marveled at the night sky
Not applicable
Usage Example (Adjective)
Not applicable
He had a marvellous time at the concert
Compare with Definitions
Marvel
Something extraordinary.
The rescue operation was a marvel of teamwork and bravery.
Marvellous
Remarkably pleasing.
They had a marvellous time at the party.
Marvel
A miraculous event.
The new technology was considered a marvel of innovation.
Marvellous
Extremely good or wonderful.
The marvellous view took their breath away.
Marvel
Something that causes wonder or astonishment.
The Taj Mahal is a marvel of design and craftsmanship.
Marvellous
Superb or excellent.
The food at the new restaurant is marvellous.
Marvel
To express amazement.
She marveled at the intricate details of the artwork.
Marvellous
Full of wonder or delight.
The children's faces lit up with marvellous excitement.
Marvel
Be filled with wonder or astonishment
‘It looks huge,’ marvelled Clare
She marvelled at Jeffrey's composure
Marvellous
Causing great admiration.
Her performance was absolutely marvellous.
Marvel
A wonderful or astonishing person or thing
The marvels of technology
Marvellous
Marvellous is a British drama television film that was first broadcast on BBC Two on 25 September 2014. The 90-minute film, directed by Julian Farino and written by Peter Bowker, is about the life of Neil Baldwin, from Westlands, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire.In the 1990s Baldwin, now an honorary graduate of Keele University, was appointed as Stoke City Football Club's kit-man by its manager Lou Macari.
Marvel
One that evokes surprise, admiration, or wonder.
Marvellous
Causing great wonder; extraordinary
These marvellous technological toys are fun to play with
Marvel
(Archaic) Strong surprise; astonishment.
Marvellous
Causing wonder or astonishment.
Marvel
To become filled with wonder or astonishment.
Marvellous
Of the highest or best kind or quality; first-rate
Has a marvelous collection of rare books.
Marvel
To feel amazement or bewilderment at or about
We marveled that they walked away unhurt from the car accident.
Marvellous
(British spelling) Exciting wonder or surprise; astonishing; wonderful.
I went to a marvellous party last week.
Marvel
That which causes wonder; a prodigy; a miracle.
Marvellous
Marvelous.
Marvel
(archaic) wonder, astonishment.
Marvellous
Extraordinarily good; used especially as intensifiers;
A fantastic trip to the Orient
The film was fantastic!
A howling success
A marvelous collection of rare books
Had a rattling conversation about politics
A tremendous achievement
Marvel
To wonder at.
Marvellous
Being or having the character of a miracle
Marvel
To cause to wonder or be surprised.
Marvellous
Too improbable to admit of belief;
A tall story
Marvel
(intransitive) To become filled with wonderment or admiration; to be amazed at something.
Marvel
That which causes wonder; a prodigy; a miracle.
I will do marvels such as have not been done.
Nature's sweet marvel undefiled.
Marvel
Wonder.
Marvel
To be struck with surprise, astonishment, or wonder; to wonder.
Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you.
Marvel
To marvel at.
Marvel
To cause to marvel, or be surprised; - used impersonally.
But much now me marveleth.
Marvel
Something that causes feelings of wonder;
The wonders of modern science
Marvel
Be amazed at;
We marvelled at the child's linguistic abilities
Marvel
Express astonishment or surprise about something
Marvel
To be filled with wonder or astonishment.
Tourists marvel at the beauty of the Northern Lights.
Common Curiosities
Can "marvellous" describe feelings?
Yes, you can describe feelings or experiences as marvellous if they are exceptionally good or wonderful.
Can "marvel" be used to describe a person?
Yes, as a noun, you can describe someone as a marvel if they do something astonishing or extraordinary.
What does "marvel" mean as a verb?
As a verb, "marvel" means to be filled with wonder or astonishment.
What does "marvel" mean as a noun?
As a noun, "marvel" refers to something that causes wonder or astonishment.
How do you spell "marvellous" in American English?
In American English, it is commonly spelled "marvelous."
Are "marvel" and "marvellous" related?
Yes, both words derive from the same root and share the connotation of wonder and excellence.
What does "marvellous" mean?
"Marvellous" is an adjective meaning extremely good or wonderful.
Is "marvel" commonly used in modern language?
Yes, "marvel" is still commonly used, especially in contexts related to amazement and wonder.
Can "marvel" refer to an action?
Yes, as a verb, "marvel" can describe the action of being amazed or astonished.
Is "marvellous" commonly used in American English?
"Marvellous" is used in both American and British English, though the spelling "marvelous" is more common in American English.
Can you use "marvel" in formal writing?
Yes, "marvel" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing.
What is an example of a "marvel"?
The Great Wall of China is considered a marvel of ancient engineering.
What is an example of something "marvellous"?
The concert was marvellous; the music and atmosphere were perfect.
Can "marvellous" be used to describe people?
Yes, you can describe someone as marvellous if they are exceptionally impressive or wonderful.
Can "marvellous" be used to describe objects?
Yes, you can describe objects as marvellous if they are exceptionally good or wonderful.
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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.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
