1.
to stand out from the crowd; to be outstanding; to be head and shoulders above
To be exceptionally superior compared to others in a group. Literally means "to pull out from the herd/group." Used as high praise for someone or something far exceeding the norm.
彼女の実力は群を抜いている。
Her abilities are outstanding.
この店のラーメンは群を抜いておいしい。
This shop's ramen is far and away the most delicious.
数多くの応募者の中で、彼のプレゼンテーションは群を抜いていた。
Among the many applicants, his presentation was head and shoulders above the rest.
USAGE:
Most commonly used in the て-form as 群を抜いて (outstandingly, far and above) or the ている-form 群を抜いている (is outstanding). Often modifies adjectives: 群を抜いて高い (outstandingly high), 群を抜いて優れている (exceptionally excellent).
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 群を抜いた + noun (群を抜いた才能, outstanding talent)
- 群を抜いて + adjective (群を抜いて美しい, outstandingly beautiful)
- 群を抜いている (is outstanding)
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 抜群: Outstanding, preeminent — a na-adjective derived from the same concept. More compact and commonly used as a modifier: 抜群の成績 (outstanding grades).
- 際立つ: To stand out — emphasizes being conspicuously different, not necessarily superior.