Introduction / Context:
“Exceptional” in evaluative writing means out of the ordinary, especially in a positive sense such as outstanding bravery. In the sentence, the soldier’s courage is praised as rare and remarkable, so the synonym should highlight rarity and distinction, not mere oddity.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Target adjective: exceptional.
- Context: commendation for bravery.
- We need a close, positive-leaning synonym.
Concept / Approach:
“Unusual” fits because it points to rarity and difference from the norm without implying a negative defect. “Strange” and “abnormal” typically carry negative or oddity connotations and do not suit praise. “Avoidable” is unrelated; “ordinary” is antonymic to the intended meaning.
Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Parse tone: commendatory; bravery is being admired.2) Select a synonym that signals rarity with positive shading.3) Choose “unusual” as the closest match.4) Exclude “strange/abnormal” due to negative nuance.5) Exclude “avoidable/ordinary” as irrelevant or opposite.
Verification / Alternative check:
Substitute: “displayed unusual courage” is standard praise in military reportage and keeps the writer’s positive evaluation intact.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
avoidable: About preventability; unrelated to quality level.strange: Odd; carries wrong connotation.abnormal: Clinical/negative tone; not commendatory.ordinary: Opposite of exceptional.
Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “exceptional” with “eccentric.” The former is about quality/degree; the latter is about odd behavior.
Final Answer:
unusual
Discussion & Comments