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How official is the word "subpar"?

Is there a reason not to use it in a document and are there any circumstances under which I should avoid its use? Could the phase "subpar performance" confuse the reader?

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This question does not need an expert to answer it. Google [ define subpar ] and you will find dictionary entries you can consult for any limitations associated with the word. – MετάEd Feb 13 '12 at 2:35

closed as general reference by MετάEd, Gnawme, FumbleFingers, Lynn, Robusto Feb 13 '12 at 4:36

This question is too basic; it can be definitively and permanently answered by a single link to a standard internet reference source designed specifically to find that type of information. See the FAQ for guidance on how to improve it.

1 Answer

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There is no official academy of the English language. Words are neither official nor unofficial.

That said, 'subpar' is a standard word that is found in all dictionaries, and has been in widespread use since the 1960's.

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