breathtaking
6 synonyms for breathtaking, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — So beautiful or spectacular that it leaves you momentarily stunned.
Synonyms
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 breathtaking
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
breathtaking view
breathtaking beauty
breathtaking arrogance
breathtaking speed
Etymology
A straightforward compound of "breath" and "taking" — literally something so striking it takes your breath away.
Full origin of breathtaking →Frequently asked questions
What does “breathtaking” mean?
The word “breathtaking” means so beautiful or spectacular that it leaves you momentarily stunned. In plain terms, amazing enough to make you gasp — for good reasons (beauty) or bad ones (shock).
How do you pronounce “breathtaking”?
“Breathtaking” is pronounced BREHTH-tay-kihng (/ˈbɹɛθˌteɪ.kɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “breathtaking” in a sentence?
Here is “breathtaking” used in a sentence: “The view from the summit was breathtaking.”
What part of speech is “breathtaking”?
“Breathtaking” is an adjective.
Is “breathtaking” a common word?
“Breathtaking” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “breathtaking” have?
“Breathtaking” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: so beautiful or spectacular that it leaves you momentarily stunned.
What is the difference between "breathtaking" and "stunning"?
Both words describe something so beautiful or spectacular that it leaves you momentarily amazed, and they are often used interchangeably in praise of scenery or performances. "Breathtaking" more strongly evokes the physical sensation of being left speechless or short of breath.
Can "breathtaking" describe something negative?
Yes, "breathtaking" can also describe something so shocking, bold, or extreme that it takes people by surprise, as in "breathtaking incompetence," where the word conveys astonishment rather than admiration.
Is "breathtaking" a formal or informal word?
"Breathtaking" is neutral in register and appropriate in both formal writing, such as travel or arts reviews, and everyday conversation.
