blitz
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for blitz, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To attack suddenly and with great force, or to complete a task very quickly and intensively.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use blitz
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
Shortened from blitzkrieg, German for "lightning war," first used of World War II bombing raids.
Full origin of blitz →Frequently asked questions
What does “blitz” mean?
The word “blitz” means to attack suddenly and with great force, or to complete a task very quickly and intensively. In plain terms, a sudden, intense attack, or an intense, fast burst of effort to get something done quickly.
How do you pronounce “blitz”?
“Blitz” is pronounced blihts (/blɪts/ in IPA).
How do you use “blitz” in a sentence?
Here is “blitz” used in a sentence: “The city was blitzed by enemy bombers.”
What part of speech is “blitz”?
Depending on how it is used, “blitz” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “blitz” come from?
The word “blitz” comes from German. Shortened from blitzkrieg, German for "lightning war," first used of World War II bombing raids.
Is “blitz” a common word?
“Blitz” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C2 level.
How many meanings does “blitz” have?
“Blitz” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to attack suddenly and with great force, or to complete a task very quickly and intensively.
What is the difference between a "blitz" and a "blitzkrieg"?
"Blitz" is the shorter, more general word for a sudden, intense attack or burst of concentrated effort, while "blitzkrieg" specifically denotes a fast, coordinated military offensive combining speed and force. In everyday English, "blitz" is used far more broadly, including non-military contexts like a cleaning blitz or marketing blitz.
How is "blitz" used outside of warfare?
"Blitz" is commonly used as a verb or noun to describe completing a task very quickly and intensively, such as doing a "cleaning blitz" of a house or a company launching an "advertising blitz." This figurative use keeps the sense of speed and concentrated effort without any military meaning.
Is "blitz" a formal or informal word?
"Blitz" is informal and conversational, common in everyday speech, journalism, and marketing, but not typically used in formal or technical writing. It works well for emphasizing speed and intensity in a casual tone.