Meaning
An informal expression meaning very good or impressive.
Cultural Background
Americans use 'awesome' as a default positive response. It is often used to fill silence or show active listening. While widely understood, Brits might prefer 'brilliant' or 'lovely' in similar contexts. In tech startups, 'awesome' is often used to build a friendly, non-hierarchical culture. It is a staple of internet slang, often used in comments to show support.
Keep it casual
Only use 'awesome' with people you know well. It's a friendly word.
Avoid in writing
Don't use it in formal emails or essays. Use 'excellent' instead.
Meaning
An informal expression meaning very good or impressive.
Keep it casual
Only use 'awesome' with people you know well. It's a friendly word.
Avoid in writing
Don't use it in formal emails or essays. Use 'excellent' instead.
Use intensifiers
Say 'totally awesome' to sound like a native speaker.
American influence
It is the most common positive adjective in American English.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct word.
That new song is ________! I love it.
Awesome is used to express strong approval.
Which situation is appropriate for 'awesome'?
When should you use 'awesome'?
Awesome is an informal word for casual settings.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'I just got an A on my exam!' B: '________! That's great!'
Awesome is the perfect reaction to good news.
Match the situation to the best response.
Your friend suggests going to the movies.
Awesome shows enthusiasm and agreement.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesThat new song is ________! I love it.
Awesome is used to express strong approval.
When should you use 'awesome'?
Awesome is an informal word for casual settings.
A: 'I just got an A on my exam!' B: '________! That's great!'
Awesome is the perfect reaction to good news.
Your friend suggests going to the movies.
Awesome shows enthusiasm and agreement.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
12 questionsYou can, but it might sound repetitive. Try mixing it with 'great' or 'cool'.
No, it is very informal.
It's a silly, playful way to say awesome. It's very informal.
Only if the company culture is very relaxed, but it's safer to avoid it.
Yes, they are very similar in meaning.
AW-sum.
No, that meaning is obsolete.
Yes, 'You are awesome' is a great compliment.
People will be confused or offended. Don't do it!
Yes, but less frequently than in American English.
No, use 'excellent' or 'outstanding'.
You can, but 'totally awesome' is more common.
Related Phrases
That's cool
synonymThat is good.
Good job
similarWell done.
That's amazing
synonymThat is very impressive.
Sounds great
similarI agree with that plan.
