excellence; preeminence; distinction
Used in grading or evaluation contexts to denote a level above 優 (excellent); often seen in academic or performance ratings.
His grade was 'excellent' (the highest mark).
I got an 'excellent' grade in my math class.
This work received a rating of 'excellent' from the judges.
The evaluation for this report was 'excellent'.
秀逸 describes something outstanding or superb in a general sense, while 秀 is specifically the top rank in a formal grading scale.
不可 marks a failing grade, the opposite end of the same scale from 秀, which marks the top grade.
Standard kanji form for this noun.
The kanji 秀 carries meanings of 'excellent' or 'outstanding'. The reading しゅう is the on'yomi, used in this noun form.
splendid haiku; well-turned phrase
splendid poem; excellent verse
outstanding; superb; excellent
splendid tanka; splendid waka
accomplished lady; talented woman; eminent woman