super: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Informal to neutral; formal when used as a prefix in technical/scientific terms.
Quick answer
What does “super” mean?
Extremely good, excellent.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Extremely good, excellent; of the highest quality or degree.
Used as a prefix meaning 'above', 'beyond', or 'to an extreme degree'. Also used as a standalone noun (informal) for a superintendent or supervisor.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is very similar. 'Super' as an enthusiastic adjective is slightly more established in UK informal speech. The noun 'super' for superintendent is more common in US English.
Connotations
In both varieties, it conveys informal, positive emphasis. Can sound slightly dated or deliberately playful.
Frequency
High frequency in informal contexts in both varieties. The prefix use is equally common.
Grammar
How to Use “super” in a Sentence
[be] + super + ADJsuper + NOUNVERB + super + ADVVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “super” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- They decided to super the old engine with a new turbocharger. (rare, technical)
American English
- We need to super the graphics on this game. (informal, to enhance)
adverb
British English
- The new train is super fast.
- I'm super keen to get started.
American English
- This software is super easy to install.
- She's super busy this week.
adjective
British English
- The party was absolutely super!
- She did a super job organising the fête.
American English
- That's a super idea for the project.
- We had a super time at the game.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Informal praise in meetings ('a super idea'). Prefix in terms like 'supervisor', 'superstructure'.
Academic
Primarily as a prefix in scientific terminology (superconductivity, supernova).
Everyday
Very common as an informal intensifier ('That's super!', 'I'm super tired').
Technical
Prefix indicating a higher category, rank, or degree (supercomputer, superglue).
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “super”
- Using 'super' in formal writing where 'extremely', 'exceptionally', or 'very' is better.
- Overusing it as an intensifier, making speech sound childish or repetitive.
- Incorrect: 'He is a super' (meaning a great person). Correct: 'He is super' or 'He is a super guy'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, as a standalone adjective or adverb, it is informal. As a prefix in technical terms (superconductivity), it is formal and neutral.
Yes, informally. In US English, it can mean 'superintendent' (building manager). In UK English, it's rarer but can be short for 'supernumerary' or used in phrases like 'a real super' (a great thing/person).
'Super' is more informal and emphatic than 'very'. It often carries a more positive, enthusiastic connotation. 'Very' is neutral and usable in all registers.
The vowel is the same (/uː/). The main difference is the treatment of 'r'. In British (non-rhotic) English, the final 'r' is not pronounced unless followed by a vowel. In American (rhotic) English, the final 'r' is always pronounced.
Extremely good, excellent.
Super: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsuːpə(r)/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsuːpər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “super-duper (informal, emphatic)”
- “on super (slang, very fast/well)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of SUPERman – he is ABOVE and BEYOND normal humans.
Conceptual Metaphor
MORE IS UP / GOOD IS UP (superior, superhighway).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'super' LEAST appropriate?