When we say something is striking, we mean it's very attractive or impressive.
It's something that really catches your attention because it's remarkable.
Think of it like a beautiful painting or a very interesting person that you can't easily forget.
It stands out from everything else around it in a memorable way.
When we say something or someone is striking, we mean they are exceptionally noticeable and often impressive. It's not just about being attractive; it's about making a strong visual or emotional impact.
For example, a painting with vibrant colors and a powerful message could be described as striking, or a person with a very distinctive and memorable appearance.
The word implies that the quality is so remarkable that it immediately captures your attention and leaves a lasting impression, often because it's so different or outstanding compared to others.
§ What does 'striking' mean?
- Definition
- Extremely attractive or impressive, often in a way that is noticeable and memorable. It describes something or someone that stands out due to their remarkable qualities.
The adjective 'striking' is used to describe something or someone that immediately catches your attention because they are exceptionally impressive, beautiful, or distinctive. It implies a strong, often positive, impact on the observer. When you say something is 'striking,' you're suggesting it's not just pleasant, but truly stands out from the ordinary, leaving a lasting impression. This can apply to a wide range of things, from physical appearance to abstract qualities.
§ When do people use 'striking'?
People use 'striking' in various contexts where something is particularly noteworthy. Here are some common scenarios:
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To describe physical appearance: This is one of the most frequent uses. Someone with 'striking features' might have eyes of an unusual color, a distinctive hairstyle, or a very elegant posture. It goes beyond simply 'pretty' or 'handsome' to suggest a memorable and impactful look.
Her bright red hair and emerald green eyes gave her a truly striking appearance.
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To describe art, architecture, or design: A 'striking' painting or building is one that immediately draws the eye and makes a strong impression. It might be due to bold colors, innovative design, or unique composition.
The modern museum had a striking facade made of glass and steel.
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To describe an idea, contrast, or similarity: When something is 'striking' in this context, it means it's remarkably clear, obvious, or impactful. A 'striking similarity' means the resemblance is very noticeable. A 'striking difference' implies a very clear and important distinction.
There was a striking contrast between the old traditions and the new generation's ideas.
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To describe an achievement or performance: If an achievement or performance is 'striking,' it means it's particularly impressive and stands out from others, often because it's exceptional or unexpected.
The young athlete delivered a striking performance, breaking several records.
§ Nuances of 'striking'
The word 'striking' conveys a sense of impact and memorability. It suggests that the thing being described doesn't just exist; it makes an impression. This often comes from:
- Uniqueness: Something striking is often different or unusual in a good way.
- Clarity/Boldness: It's not subtle; it's easily perceived and understood.
- Intensity: There's a certain strength or power to what is described as striking.
Consider the difference between 'a pretty dress' and 'a striking dress.' A pretty dress is nice to look at, but a striking dress is one that you would remember, perhaps for its bold pattern, unusual cut, or vibrant color. Similarly, a 'striking argument' is one that is particularly persuasive and well-articulated, making a strong impact on the listener.
§ Synonyms and related words
Some synonyms and related words that convey similar ideas, though often with slightly different nuances, include:
- Impressive: Causes admiration or respect.
- Remarkable: Worthy of attention; unusual or exceptional.
- Stunning: Extremely attractive or impressive (often stronger than 'striking').
- Eye-catching: Immediately noticeable.
- Distinctive: Having a special quality, style, or appearance that is clearly different from others.
- Conspicuous: Standing out so as to be clearly visible.
In summary, 'striking' is a powerful adjective used to highlight something that is not merely good or attractive, but truly stands out and leaves a strong, memorable impression on anyone who perceives it. It's a word that emphasizes impact and distinctiveness.
§ Common Pitfalls
The adjective 'striking' is a powerful word that conveys strong positive impressions. However, its intensity can sometimes lead to misuse. Understanding the nuances and common mistakes can help you wield this word more effectively and accurately in your communication.
§ Overusing 'Striking'
One of the most common mistakes is overusing 'striking'. Because it denotes something exceptionally attractive or impressive, using it too frequently can diminish its impact. If everything is 'striking', then nothing truly stands out. It's like using 'amazing' for every pleasant experience; eventually, the word loses its special meaning.
§ Confusing 'Striking' with 'Surprising' or 'Shocking'
While something striking might indeed be surprising, 'striking' itself primarily describes an impressive visual or conceptual impact, not necessarily an unexpected one. It emphasizes attractiveness, beauty, or remarkable quality. 'Surprising' or 'shocking' implies an element of the unexpected or even an unpleasant jolt.
- Incorrect Usage
- The news of the sudden closure was striking.
In this context, 'striking' is not the best fit because the news might be surprising or shocking, but not necessarily 'attractive' or 'impressive' in the positive sense that 'striking' conveys.
- Correct Usage
- The news of the sudden closure was shocking.
Her performance was so striking that the audience gave a standing ovation.
Here, 'striking' is used correctly to describe an impressive and memorable performance.
§ Using 'Striking' with Neutral or Negative Connotations
While language is fluid, 'striking' almost invariably carries a positive connotation when describing attractiveness or impressiveness. Using it in a neutral or negative context can sound awkward or contradictory.
- Incorrect Usage
- The striking poverty in the region was difficult to ignore.
While the poverty might be noticeable and memorable, 'striking' implies a positive admiration that doesn't fit the context of poverty. Better choices would be 'stark', 'appalling', or 'severe'.
- Correct Usage
- The stark poverty in the region was difficult to ignore.
§ Using 'Striking' to Describe Non-Visual or Non-Auditory Attributes
While 'striking' can apply to ideas or qualities, it often has a strong association with things that are visually or audibly impressive. Using it for abstract concepts that aren't inherently perceived in such a way can sometimes feel a bit off.
- Less Ideal Usage
- The striking efficiency of the new software was impressive.
While efficiency can be impressive, 'striking' might not be the most precise descriptor here. Words like 'remarkable', 'exceptional', or 'notable' might fit better.
- Better Usage
- The remarkable efficiency of the new software was impressive.
The artist's use of color was truly striking, capturing everyone's attention.
Here, 'striking' effectively describes a visual attribute.
§ Forgetting Context and Audience
The effectiveness of 'striking' also depends on context. What one person finds striking, another might not. Always consider your audience and the specific context you're writing in. In formal academic writing, a more precise or less evocative synonym might sometimes be preferred.
In casual conversation: "Her new haircut is absolutely striking!" (Perfectly acceptable)
In a scientific report: "The striking results of the experiment..." (Might be better as 'significant' or 'remarkable' depending on the exact nature of the results.)
§ Summary of Key Takeaways
To avoid common mistakes when using 'striking':
Use it sparingly to maintain its impact.
Ensure it conveys positive attractiveness or impressiveness, not just surprise or shock.
Avoid using it with neutral or negative connotations.
Consider if another synonym (e.g., remarkable, exceptional, noticeable) might be more precise for non-visual/auditory attributes.
Always be mindful of your context and audience.
By keeping these points in mind, you can confidently and effectively use 'striking' to describe things that truly stand out in a memorable and positive way.
How Formal Is It?
"The architect's design presented a truly remarkable facade, drawing admiration from all who beheld it."
"The new art exhibit features an impressive collection of modern sculptures."
"Wow, her new dress is absolutely gorgeous!"
"Look at that amazing rainbow in the sky!"
"That new song is straight up fire!"
Wusstest du?
The word 'strike' has a rich history, with its earliest uses relating to physical impact. Over time, it developed a figurative sense of making a strong impression, which led to the adjective 'striking' to describe something notably impressive or attractive.
Beispiele nach Niveau
She wore a striking red dress to the party.
Ella llevó un llamativo vestido rojo a la fiesta.
Here, 'striking' describes the dress.
The artist used striking colors in his painting.
El artista usó colores impactantes en su pintura.
'Striking' describes the colors.
He has a striking resemblance to his father.
Él tiene un parecido asombroso con su padre.
'Striking' describes the resemblance.
The view from the mountain top was truly striking.
La vista desde la cima de la montaña era realmente impresionante.
'Striking' describes the view.
Her new haircut is very striking.
Su nuevo corte de pelo es muy llamativo.
'Striking' describes the haircut.
The building has a striking modern design.
El edificio tiene un diseño moderno sorprendente.
'Striking' describes the design.
She made a striking discovery in her research.
Ella hizo un descubrimiento notable en su investigación.
'Striking' describes the discovery.
The dancer's performance was very striking.
La actuación del bailarín fue muy impactante.
'Striking' describes the performance.
The artist's latest sculpture was a striking depiction of modern urban life, drawing gasps from the onlookers.
The latest sculpture was very impressive and noticeable, showing city life.
Here, 'striking' modifies 'depiction', emphasizing its impactful nature.
Her striking blue eyes were the first thing he noticed, captivating him instantly across the crowded room.
Her very noticeable blue eyes were the first thing he saw.
'Striking' is used as an adjective before 'blue eyes' to highlight their remarkable quality.
The architect incorporated a striking blend of traditional and contemporary elements into the building's design.
The design mixed old and new parts in a very impressive way.
This sentence uses 'striking' to describe the blend of elements as impressively noticeable.
Despite the challenging circumstances, her ability to remain calm and focused was truly striking.
Even with difficulties, her calmness and focus were very impressive.
'Striking' modifies 'ability', indicating how remarkable her composure was.
The advertising campaign featured a striking image that immediately grabbed the attention of potential customers.
The ad used a very eye-catching picture to get people's attention.
Here, 'striking' describes the 'image' as being remarkably attractive and noticeable.
There was a striking resemblance between the two siblings, despite their different personalities.
The two brothers/sisters looked very much alike, even with different personalities.
'Striking' is used before 'resemblance' to emphasize the strong and noticeable similarity.
The novel contained a striking passage that articulated the protagonist's inner turmoil with great clarity.
The book had a very powerful part that clearly showed the main character's inner problems.
This example uses 'striking' to describe a 'passage' as impressively powerful and memorable.
The company's new policy had a striking positive impact on employee morale and productivity.
The new policy had a very clear and impressive good effect on employees' happiness and work.
'Striking' modifies 'positive impact', highlighting the noticeable and impressive effect.
Wortherkunft
Late Middle English
Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: To hit, to beat; to deeply impress (figurative)
GermanicKultureller Kontext
The concept of 'striking' beauty or impressiveness is largely universal across cultures, as humans tend to be drawn to things that are remarkable or stand out. In Western cultures, particularly in art and fashion, 'striking' is often used to describe bold, memorable, or unconventional appearances that capture attention. It can also refer to impactful achievements or performances that leave a lasting impression on an audience or society.
Teste dich selbst 24 Fragen
Listen for the description of the car.
Listen for what kind of dress she has.
Listen for where the striking flowers are.
Read this aloud:
The dog is striking.
Focus: striking
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Read this aloud:
This painting is striking.
Focus: striking
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Read this aloud:
What a striking view!
Focus: striking view
Du hast gesagt:
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The sunset over the ocean was truly ___ with vibrant colors.
'Striking' means extremely attractive or impressive, which fits the description of a beautiful sunset.
Her performance in the play was ___ and received a standing ovation.
'Striking' suggests a performance that was very impressive and stood out.
The new building has a ___ design that really catches the eye.
A 'striking' design is one that is very noticeable and memorable due to its impressive qualities.
A 'striking' feature is something that is easy to overlook.
The definition of 'striking' implies something that is noticeable and memorable, not easy to overlook.
If someone has a 'striking' personality, they are generally very charismatic.
A 'striking' personality would mean it's impressive and noticeable, often associated with charisma.
The word 'striking' can be used to describe something very ordinary and unexciting.
'Striking' describes something extremely attractive or impressive, which is the opposite of ordinary and unexciting.
Focus on the overall impression of the design.
Consider the impact of her performance.
Pay attention to the visual elements being described.
Read this aloud:
Can you describe a moment in history or a work of art that you found particularly striking, and explain why it left such a strong impression on you?
Focus: striking, impression
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Read this aloud:
In what ways can a speaker's delivery or choice of words be considered striking, and how does this affect their audience?
Focus: delivery, audience
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Read this aloud:
Imagine you are a fashion critic. Describe a striking outfit or fashion trend that you've recently seen, detailing its unique qualities and why it stands out.
Focus: outfit, unique qualities
Du hast gesagt:
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Describe a moment in history or a current event that you found particularly striking, explaining why it left such a strong impression on you.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 was a truly striking event, symbolizing the collapse of an ideological divide that had shaped global politics for decades. The images of people from East and West embracing, dismantling the wall with hammers and chisels, were incredibly powerful and conveyed a profound sense of hope and freedom. It was a pivotal moment that demonstrated the human desire for unity and self-determination, leaving an indelible mark on collective memory.
Imagine you are an art critic reviewing a new exhibition. Use 'striking' to describe one of the pieces, elaborating on its visual and emotional impact.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Among the diverse collection, 'Echoes of Serenity' stood out as a particularly striking piece. Its minimalist composition, featuring a solitary figure against a stark, abstract background, immediately commanded attention. The artist's masterful use of light and shadow created an almost palpable sense of melancholic introspection, drawing the viewer into a profound contemplation of solitude and human vulnerability. The sheer emotional resonance of the painting was undeniable, leaving a lasting impression.
Write a short paragraph about a person whose personality or achievements you find striking. Explain what qualities make them so remarkable.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Malala Yousafzai's unwavering courage and advocacy for education are undeniably striking. Despite facing immense adversity and a direct threat to her life, her commitment to ensuring every child has the right to learn has not wavered. Her eloquence and resilience in the face of such challenges are truly remarkable, making her a beacon of hope and an inspiration for millions globally. She embodies a rare blend of strength and conviction that is genuinely unforgettable.
What made the cultural center a 'striking' visual spectacle?
Read this passage:
The architect's innovative design for the new cultural center was met with widespread acclaim. Its unique blend of modern aesthetics and traditional motifs created a striking visual spectacle that instantly became a landmark. Critics praised its daring use of unconventional materials and its harmonious integration with the surrounding urban landscape, calling it a masterpiece of contemporary architecture.
What made the cultural center a 'striking' visual spectacle?
The passage explicitly states that 'Its unique blend of modern aesthetics and traditional motifs created a striking visual spectacle.'
The passage explicitly states that 'Its unique blend of modern aesthetics and traditional motifs created a striking visual spectacle.'
What aspect of the politician's speech was described as 'striking'?
Read this passage:
During the debate, the politician delivered a particularly striking speech that captivated the audience. Her articulate arguments and passionate delivery resonated deeply with listeners, swaying many undecided voters. The media later highlighted her compelling rhetoric as a key factor in her surging popularity.
What aspect of the politician's speech was described as 'striking'?
The passage mentions 'Her articulate arguments and passionate delivery resonated deeply with listeners' as what made the speech striking.
The passage mentions 'Her articulate arguments and passionate delivery resonated deeply with listeners' as what made the speech striking.
What was the immediate effect of the scientist's 'striking' discovery?
Read this passage:
The scientist's groundbreaking discovery offered a striking new perspective on the origins of the universe. It challenged long-held theories and opened up entirely new avenues of research. The implications of her findings were so profound that they promised to reshape our understanding of cosmology for decades to come.
What was the immediate effect of the scientist's 'striking' discovery?
The passage states, 'It challenged long-held theories and opened up entirely new avenues of research,' as a result of the striking discovery.
The passage states, 'It challenged long-held theories and opened up entirely new avenues of research,' as a result of the striking discovery.
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