striking - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
striking Word Meanings
- in a way that is very noticeable or unusual
- in a way that attracts attention
- remarkably or significantly
striking Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
striking Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈstraɪ.kɪŋ/
US
/ˈstraɪ.kɪŋ/
striking Word Etymology
striking = strike + -ing; Middle English through Old French from the Germanic root meaning 'to hit' or 'to affect strongly'. Imagine a painter striking their canvas with vivid colors that grab your attention suddenly.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I push the door open and let the light move across the room as I step inside. A striking color on the wall grabs my eye and I slow to hold that moment. I adjust my stance, shift my gaze, and keep my pace calm as I decide what to notice next. Later, in conversation, I reach for striking when something truly stands out.
Real Context
Striking describes something that grabs attention because it is unusual, strong, or visually bold. In everyday English, it is most often a descriptive adjective placed before a noun: a striking resemblance, a striking color, a striking performance. It can also be used to emphasize ideas or situations with intensity. Note that English speakers rarely use striking as an adverb; for adverbial emphasis you typically use strikingly or a different expression such as very or dramatically. Learners should watch for contexts where striking conveys strong impact, whether positive (astonishing beauty) or negative (a striking contrast that jars the viewer).
Usage Reminders
- 1) Use before a noun: a striking color, a striking resemblance. 2) Do not force striking where a simple 'very' or 'dramatic' fits better. 3) Distinguish adjective (striking) from adverb (strikingly). 4) Consider connotation: striking can be positive or shocking. 5) Pair with visual nouns for impact. 6) Practice collocations like striking contrast, striking performance.
Common Misconceptions
- Striking is only about physical appearance.
- It must be used with a positive tone.
- It can replace all forms of 'very' or 'extremely'.
- It always sounds formal.
- It can describe actions like striking a match.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Note that striking usually precedes the noun it describes (a striking contrast).
- Don’t force striking as a verb; prefer adjectives or adverb phrases.
- Practice with visual nouns (color, design, appearance) to feel the impact.
- Compare with synonyms (dramatic, noticeable) to sense nuance.
- Watch tone: striking can be impressed or jarring, depending on context.
- Create your own sentences to reinforce collocations like striking resemblance.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'striking' used correctly?
A.She whispered in a striking voice.
B.The small rabbit was striking in size.
C.The colorful flowers made a striking scene.
D.He walked quietly in a striking manner.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'striking'?
A.Dull
B.Plain
C.Vivid
D.Quiet
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which situation best describes 'striking'?
A.A bold and eye-catching hairstyle
B.A bland and unnoticeable outfit
C.A dull and uninteresting painting
D.A quiet and unobtrusive song
Step 5: Mastery
Create a sentence using 'striking'.
A.The bright sunset was striking in its beauty.
B.The mundane lecture was striking.
C.She quietly admired the striking view.
D.He walked in a striking manner.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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