Words / C1

i-PIT-uh-mee/ɪˈpɪtəmi/

The epitome of X is a perfect, concentrated example of that quality: the epitome of patience. Example is everyday and weaker; embodiment is a close formal cousin. Pattern: the epitome of + noun. Epitomise is the verb (she epitomises calm). It is slightly stylish in speech; a perfect example of is safer in conversation. Do not use it for a merely typical case.

Meaning

A perfect example of a quality or type.

Examples

• “She is the epitome of a patient teacher.”
• “That email is the epitome of a polite refusal.”
• “The building was once the epitome of modern design.”

Good to know

the epitome of + quality. Verb: epitomise. Stronger than a typical example. Everyday: a perfect example.

Near in meaning

embodiment

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