unexceptionable, unexceptional

To be exceptional means to be “superior” or “uncommon.”

Exceptionable means “objectionable” or “open to debate.” The prefix “un” creates the opposites of both terms.

Unexceptionable means “not open to debate” and unexceptional means “not above average” and is normally used to politely imply a state of inferiority.

Example: The referee had unexceptionable judgment despite his many years of unexceptional service.