Translation guide
The English adverb "exceptionally" is used to emphasize that something is unusual, outstanding, or an exception to the norm. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various adverbs and phrases depending on the nuance: to a remarkable degree, unusually, or as a special case.
Emphasizing that something is outstandingly good, high, or impressive.
A versatile and common adverb meaning 'very' or 'extremely'. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts to emphasize degree.
彼は非常に才能がある。
He is exceptionally talented.
A formal adverb meaning 'extremely' or 'exceedingly'. Often used in written or formal speech to emphasize an exceptional degree.
この問題は極めて重要だ。
This issue is exceptionally important.
Means 'particularly' or 'exceptionally', often used to highlight something that stands out from the norm. Can be used in both positive and negative contexts.
今日は格別に寒い。
It's exceptionally cold today.
An adverb meaning 'especially' or 'particularly', used to single out something as exceptional among others.
この料理はとりわけ美味しい。
This dish is exceptionally delicious.
Means 'outstandingly' or 'head and shoulders above'. Emphasizes that something is far superior to others. Often used in casual or spoken contexts.
彼女はずば抜けて足が速い。
She is exceptionally fast.
Indicating that something is not typical or deviates from the norm, often with a neutral or negative connotation.
Means 'abnormally' or 'unusually'. It implies a deviation from the normal state, often with a negative or alarming nuance.
今年の夏は異常に暑い。
This summer is exceptionally hot.
Directly translates to 'exceptionally' in the sense of 'as an exception'. Used when something is a rare case or an exception to a rule.
彼は例外的に遅刻した。
He was exceptionally late (as an exception to his usual punctuality).
Means 'unusually' or 'more than usual', often used to describe someone's behavior or state that is different from their norm.
Emphasizing that something is done as an exception to a rule or standard procedure.
Means 'specially' or 'exceptionally'. Used when something is done outside of normal rules or treatment.
今回は特別に許します。
I'll forgive you exceptionally this time.
Literally 'as an exception'. Used to state that something is an exception to a general rule.
例外として、彼の入場を認めた。
Exceptionally, he was allowed to enter.
Both mean 'very' or 'extremely', but 非常に is more common in everyday speech and writing, while 極めて is more formal and often used in written or official contexts. 非常に can be used in casual conversation, but 極めて would sound stiff.
非常に助かりました。
It was exceptionally helpful. (natural in conversation)
極めて遺憾に存じます。
I find it exceptionally regrettable. (formal statement)
Directly translating 'exceptionally' as 例外的に in all contexts can sound unnatural. 例外的に is only used when something is literally an exception to a rule or pattern. For emphasizing degree, use adverbs like 非常に or 極めて.
He is exceptionally serious today.