C1adjective2K

Striking

UK /["/ˈstraɪkɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈstraɪkɪŋ/"]/

Definition

interesting and unusual enough to attract attention

In simple words: Very noticeable or impressive.

Examples

  • a striking feature
  • She bears **a striking resemblance** to her older sister.
  • **In striking contrast to** their brothers, the girls were both intelligent and charming.
  • The similarities between the two cases are striking.
  • The picture was striking in its simplicity.
  • What is immediately striking is how resourceful the children are.
  • The painting is a striking example of nineteenth-century portraiture.
  • striking good looks
  • She was undoubtedly a very striking young woman.
  • That hat looks very striking.

Usage notes

Use 'striking' to describe something that catches attention due to its beauty, uniqueness, or size. It is appropriate in both spoken and written contexts. Avoid using it in overly casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'strike a pose'—something striking grabs your attention like a great pose!

Collocations

  • be
  • look
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • in
  • be
  • look
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • in

Synonyms

  • impressive
  • noticeable
  • dramatic
  • glaring
  • conspicuous

Antonyms

  • unremarkable
  • ordinary
  • dull

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'strikes' as in hitting something.
  • Using 'striking' to describe something common or boring.
  • Not understanding it can refer to people as well as objects.