1
Core quality
Highly respected, distinguished, and prominent within a profession or field.
Example
The panel included several eminent historians.
eminent
/ˈemɪnənt/ · EM-ih-nuntadjective
Highly respected, distinguished, and prominent within a profession or field.
Use eminent to express this relationship precisely: highly respected, distinguished, and prominent within a profession or field.
What eminent Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Attributive or predicative use
Use this adjective before a suitable noun or after a linking verb such as be or seem.
Example
An eminent scientist reviewed the evidence independently.
3
Analytical distinction
Choose it when this exact descriptive quality matters; a related word may overlap without conveying the same trait.
Example
Her work made her eminent in the field of public health.
Use eminent Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The panel included several eminent historians.
An eminent scientist reviewed the evidence independently.
Her work made her eminent in the field of public health.
Precision Matters
Eminent overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
eminent
vs.Means highly respected, distinguished, and prominent within a profession or field.
imposing
Means very large and impressive in appearance.
eminent
vs.Means highly respected, distinguished, and prominent within a profession or field.
erudite
Means having or displaying extensive scholarly knowledge and learning.
eminent
vs.Means highly respected, distinguished, and prominent within a profession or field.
conspicuous
Means easily noticed or attracting attention.
eminent
vs.Means highly respected, distinguished, and prominent within a profession or field.
profound
Means deep, insightful, or intense.
Test eminent in Context
The linguist is famous and highly respected within the field.
1
The lecture was delivered by an ___ linguist whose research had shaped the discipline for decades.