Striking: Definition, Usage & Common Mistakes

Meaning 1：noticeably impressive (striking)

striking 🔊

/ˈstraɪkɪŋ/

adj.

Something that is very impressive and easily catches your attention because it is special or unusual.

Striking visual example: a person in a bright yellow raincoat stands out in a grey city street.

noticeably impressive 🔊

➕

/ˈnoʊtɪsəbli ɪmˈprɛsɪv/

adj.

Describing something that is so special or unusual that it immediately draws attention and leaves a strong impression.

📁 Category：Fashion Trends 🔖 Level：intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Derived from verb 'strike' (to hit or impress) with suffix '-ing', forming an adjective meaning attention-grabbing.

💡 Mnemonic

Think of a lightning strike—sudden and eye-catching! So 'striking' means impressively noticeable.

📖 Example

She wore a striking red dress to the party, and everyone turned to look when she entered the room. 🔊 She wore a striking red dress to the party, and everyone turned to look when she entered the room.

🔗 Collocations

striking resemblance – a very close similarity that is easily noticed

striking contrast – a sharp difference that stands out clearly

striking appearance – a visual look that is highly attention-grabbing

🔄 Synonyms

eye-catching (adj.) – easily attracting visual attention

impressive (adj.) – evoking admiration through notable qualities

arresting (adj.) – commanding immediate attention

🚫 Antonyms

unremarkable (adj.) – not worthy of special attention

ordinary (adj.) – common and not standing out

bland (adj.) – lacking strong features or interest

🌱 Derivatives

strikingly (adv.) – in a manner that is very impressive or noticeable

📖 Cultural Story

Originates from Old English 'strīcan', meaning to stroke or hit. As an adjective, it evolved to describe something that makes a strong visual impression, often used in fashion and art contexts.