What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
phenomenal
Example
The response to the new product has been phenomenal. [phenomenal: adjective]
Example
The concert was a phenomenal success, with thousands of fans attending. [phenomenal: adjective]
extraordinary
Example
The athlete's performance was extraordinary, breaking several records. [extraordinary: adjective]
Example
It's extraordinary that he was able to finish the project in such a short time. [extraordinary: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Extraordinary is more commonly used than phenomenal in everyday language. Extraordinary is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while phenomenal is less common and often used in more specific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between phenomenal and extraordinary?
Both phenomenal and extraordinary are formal words that are often used in academic or professional settings to describe exceptional events or achievements.